Elizabeth Jane "Betty" Murphy

Elizabeth Jane “Betty” Murphy, age 77, began her eternal life with our Lord on Wednesday, April 18, 2012. Born in Watertown, WI 5-25-1934 to EP and Elizabeth Stoll. A resident in Phoenix, AZ since 1965. Betty was a devoted Christian, an exceptional wife, mother and friend. She was strong and persevering and overcame many health challenges. In 2002, shortly after sharing a model marriage and family of 48 years with her good husband Ronald Murphy, complications occurred after major heart surgery, but she hung in there. Then in 2009 she had a traumatic fall resulting in a broken neck. Yet, as she said “by Amazing grace” along with the skill of her surgeon was able to carry on. She stood tall and bravely accepted her challenges and inspired many by example. Even as a role model worthy of emulating. She taught everyone she knew and loved how to live a respectful life. She was genuinely nice, friendly, thoughtful, generous and considerate. She always praised others, never having a bad word to say about anybody. Betty and Ron were able to realize their dreams by enjoying their love for adventuring in the great outdoors and nature together. Traveling to Alaska three times, over numerous Arizona highways and back roads, as well as taking in fishing, camping and hiking to them this was sheer delight! The epitome of their endeavors was to realize a cabin in the woods that they found on the Mogollon Rim. This became their greatest joy to share with family and friends. Betty was a professional that began as a career in banking working for Bank of America in Burbank, CA. After raising three great kids, she went back to work for Washington School District #6 as their Executive Secretary to the director of purchasing until she became eligible for retirement. She volunteered at her church on the gifts and memorials committee and was also a Cub Scout den mother. She was the youngest to her siblings Victor Stoll, Monique Barns, David Stoll and Lance Stoll. She is survived by her children Daniel Murphy, Kathleen (Jack) McGriff, Jim Murphy and her grandchildren Katie McGriff, Dylan Murphy and Joseph McGriff. She also leaves behind a sister-in-law, Oxanna Stoll. Her other passions were her love for watching movies, listening to music, playing her organ and love for her dogs. Lastly her companion dogs, a Jack Russell, Buddy, then her Bishon Frises, Susie, Buttons and Penny. Regarding dogs, her most significant accomplishment in obedience training was her registered “Wee Bonnie Buffy”, which she took great pride in being the first Bishon Frise in the state of Arizona to attain the title of AKC Utility and CDX in obedience! A CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICE will be held Saturday, May 5th, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at: Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, in the Chapel, 1500 W. Maryland Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85015 (602) 249-1936. Reception following in Burns Hall. God’s gift to the world was knowing Betty. She has also been known to say “the clouds are smiling today”!