Betty Ann Murphy

Betty Ann Murphy, age 83 of Sterling Heights, died Saturday, June 2, 2012 at home under the watchful care of her loved ones and hospice. She was born September 29, 1928 in Detroit, daughter of the late John William and the late Marjorie Ann (nee: Newton) Jackson. A loving wife, mother and grandmother, Betty's most profound passion in life was centered around the joys of family. Spending time with them brought her life's sweetest rewards, and the memories they built together were treasured immeasurably. With her own brand of tender-loving-care, she was the glue that held it all together and possessed a compassionate strength that was truly revered. And it's with no surprise that her servant's heart was a testament to her strong and abiding faith in God, a relationship she loved to share with her fellow brother's and sister's as a longtime member of Hope Lutheran Church in Warren. When she was able to secure a little time of solitude, Betty often enjoyed the simple pleasure of curling up with a good book. She loved to read and expand her mind and imagination through the many pieces in her literary collection. Betty was also quite fond of swimming and found great enjoyment through the swim class she participated in, twice-a-week, a mix of fun and exercise that she shared with a few of her girlfriends. Yet, without question, one of Betty's favorite pastimes was challenging Lady Luck. Possessing a "gaming spirit" at her core, she loved to experience the excitement and thrill of a little gambling action which included a number of different venues. Whether engaged with a group at Bingo, or visiting a favorite casino, or simply a game of cards with family and friends (her favorite's being Blackjack and Poker),...Betty truly knew how to define the term "fun," and Ol' Lady Luck took quite a beating over the years! Another defining aspect that Betty will be remembered for was her unique and genuine sense of "style." Dressing up was important to her, but the picture just wasn't complete without adding a little shine and sparkle from her treasured collection of costume jewelry. She loved spicing things up with a bit of "bling-bling" which, simply, enhanced the beautiful lady she already was in everyone's eyes. For as much as all will reflect on how Betty adorned herself on this side of Heaven, just imagine how her Heavenly Father is adorning her even now. Now THAT'S gotta be some kind of "bling." In painting the picture of Betty, the canvas just wouldn't be complete without mentioning what an incredible love she shared with her precious collie, "Murphy." She cherished her dog dearly, and he was a faithful companion that provided her that unconditional love that melted her heart and soothed her soul, daily. Devout, compassionate, and fun,...these are but a small number of the traits that made Betty so special. The list is much longer, but greatest of all is the legacy of love she leaves behind for all to treasure and reflect upon. For those who were blessed to know her, God's gift of remembrance will be their guiding beacon with each and every reflection. She will be missed immensely and loved eternally. Beloved wife of the late Bertrand. Dearest mother of Paul (Denise) Derouin, Steve Derouin, James Derouin, Allan Murphy, and Sharon (Steve) Szmiot. Loving grandmother of Jeff, Scott (Susie), Anne, Stephanie, Madison, Elizabeth, and great-grandmother of Emma, Max, Caleb, Noah, Joshua, and Ashton. Step-mother of Joe (Nancy) Cottam and David (Kim) Murphy. Step-grandmother of Jenny (Rich) Thomas. Visitation for Betty will be held Sunday from 3-9 pm at the D.S. Temrowski and Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ? Mile Rd) in Warren. She will lie in state Monday at 10:00 am until the time of her Funeral Service at 11:00 am at Hope Lutheran Church, 32400 Hoover Road in Warren. Memorial donations are welcomed to the American Cancer Society, 20450 Civic Center Drive, Southfield, MI 48076.