A celebration of life for Dot Murphy will be held on Friday, April 10 in the sanctuary of Emmanuel Baptist Church in Starkville, Rev. Donald Buckner officiating. Visitation will begin at 12:00 followed by services at 2:00 with burial at Craig Springs Cemetery.
Dot passed away on April 7, 2015 in Starkville. She was born March 28, 1929 to Dave and Bessie Seitz Wallace of Longview, MS.
She is survived by her brother, Wiley Wallace of Brandon; three children, Billy Murphy (Dicye) of Starkville, Jan Murphy Scott (Bob) of Corinth, and Mike Murphy (Melanie) of Clinton; ten grandchildren: Melanie Jennings (Webb), Caleb Murphy (Marle'), Mary Esther Elam (Kyle), and Mark Murphy (Laura), all of Starkville; Kim Vanderford (Jim), Matt Rushing (Shea), Jay Rushing, and Carly Scott, all of Corinth; David and Zach Murphy of Clinton; fifteen great-grandchildren: Emily, Lucy, and Laura Jennings, McKenzie Murphy, Cole Elam, and Logan, Levi, and Holt Murphy, all of Starkville; Morgan and Madison Wigginton, Bailey and Parker Rushing, Asia and Atticus Scott, all of Corinth; Ruby Murphy of Clinton, and numerous nephews, nieces, and extended family.
In addition to her parents, Dot was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Fred Murphy; a sister, Elsie Ruth Laird Chamberlain; sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Louise Murphy Buckner, Ed Buckner, Sr., and Charlene Heflin Wallace.
Known as "Mom" to many, Dot devoted her life, time, and talents to God and her family. Her cheerful, encouraging spirit wrapped each of us in unwavering love, pride, and prayers. An accomplished pianist and award-winning seamstress, she was even more well-known for her delicious cooking and genteel hospitality.
She was a member of First Baptist Church of Starkville, prior to which she and her husband had been charter members of Meadowview Baptist Church and Faith Baptist Church of Starkville. In addition, they actively supported mission work all over the world. She enjoyed many years of participation in the Joy Sunday School Class of First Baptist, the Longview Homemakers Club, and Longview Alumni Association.
During the administrations of Tom Cook, Bill Harpole, and Mary Harpole, Dot worked in the Oktibbeha County Courthouse office of Sheriff and Tax Collector, holding the honorary title of Deputy Sheriff. Later she worked as secretary at Starkville Academy for several years.
The family would like to convey its deepest appreciation to every caregiver, both in her home and at Vicker's Personal Care Home in Starkville. Our hearts are touched by the infinite care Mom was given.
To all who knew her, Dot's legacy is a wealth of sweet memories of the finest example of a Christian wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. After years lost to Alzheimers disease, we celebrate Mom's release to join "Pop", her lifelong sweetheart, in heaven.