Shirley Purcell Lance, age 92 beloved wife for 70 years to Norman C. Lance Sr. passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 31, 2016 at her home in Stratford. She was born in Shelton, CT on January 10, 1924 to the late John and Mary Purcell. Shirley graduated from Stratford High School class of 1941 and was a dental assistant for many years to the late Dr. Alan Patterson of Stratford. In addition to her husband Norman, Shirley is survived by her sons; Skip and his wife Susan of Stratford and Tim and his wife Darlene of Derby. She is also survived by her 4 grandchildren; Katie Lance, Chris Scholz, Meghan Sullivan and Matthew Lance and her great grandson Oliver. Survivors also include her loving sister Rita Costello and her Husband Harry of Windsor Locks, one nephew, 4 nieces and their families. The family would like to extend their gratitude to the Vitas Hospice Health Care and Hope Health Care for their compassionate care and support. Funeral services will take place on Wednesday, January 4, 2016 at 11:00 am at the Dennis & D'Arcy – Abriola & Kelemen Funeral Home, 2611 Main Street, Stratford. Interment will be held privately in Union Cemetery, Stratford. Friends may greet the family on Wednesday morning from 10:00 am until the time of service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Vitas Hospice, 488 Main Ave., Norwalk, CT 06851. For online condolences please visit www.dennisanddarcy.com