

Murphy made her transition on October 25, 2026. She is survived by her sister, Shelley Cutler of Lansing; cousin, Penny Harold (Dr. Mark Harold deceased) of Lansing; cousin Kathy Clark (Bob) of Georgia (formerly of Harbor Springs); special adopted son Jason Crowell (Amber) of St. Johns whom she shared her love of technology and of who she was very proud; special friends and caregivers Jayne Barlett and Peg Braun of Dimondale, Genis Bucher (John Prince) of Mason, Laura Jimenez of Lansing and Brian Lemm of Lansing.
Murphy retired from the State of Michigan after 30 years where she worked in various departments including the Department of Health and Human Services, MESC in Detroit, Corrections, and Information Technology Management and Budget. Her passion for technology was motivated throughout her career and beyond. She was often referred to as the "Spreadsheet Queen." In addition, Murphy, was a wonderful artist and was published and recognized for her achievement in The Paper Doll Magazine. SHe was an avid card player and enjoyed playing canasta, cribbage, but her favorite was playing bridge for hours at a time. She played in many bridge tournaments and she loved the competition, especially when she won! She was a voracious reader of Harlequin romances and detective stories and she always knew who did it by the 3rd chapter.
In her youth she enjoyed shopping and going antiquing with her favorite aunt. This love was carried out throughout her life. She never saw a piece of cranberry glass she could refrain from buying. Everything in her home is accented in French country blue glass and furniture. She also loved colored glass that could shine in her window when the sun hit it. She never met a piece of glass or a dish that she could resist.
Her most recent passion was matching her clothing to her 52 pairs of shoes. Every day she matched the outfit of the day to matching shoes. New items of apparel would arrive daily and be matched with shoes before she would even consider wearing them. SHe was a fashionista. Clothing and shoes brightened her days and delighted her. She did runway walked for her caregivers and friends every morning to get approval on her outfit choice for the day.
Recently, she had suffered with multiple health issues, but even with that she was very proud of reaching her 77th birthday (8-03) and she celebrated it for a month. She loved meeting her long time friends Debbie Patterson, Carol Starosta, and Kathy Seymour to celebrated birthdays and to sit and talk during cookie decorating sessions.
Murphy had a passion for rescuing animals needing a home. She had rescued nine cats and dogs in her lifetime and her goal was for an even 10. Having recently lost her beloved Tucker (beagle) se was no longer able to care for animals. Tucker brightened her days and he was a welcome wagon for everyone that walked through her front door.
Murphy's presence in our lives will continue to guide us as she watches over us. She will truly be missed. Sending her hugs on her journey.
Due to Murphy's wishes there will be no service, but a contribution in her name may be made to the Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 West Grand River Avenue, Lansing, MI 48906. Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 900 East Michigan Avenue, Lansing, MI 48912 is assisting the family.
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