Marsha H. Murphy of Laurel passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on Feb. 22, 1952 to Kathryn and Marshall Hastings of Seaford, Marsha was a proud graduate of Laurel High School, class of 1970. An all-around athlete, she played softball, field hockey, and basketball. And she loved her Bulldogs. She cherished her hometown of Laurel and the many lifelong friends she made over the years. She was the one who planned the reunions and get togethers, making sure everyone stayed connected.
On July 2, 1971, Marsha married the love of her life, Jerry T. Murphy. Together, they built a full life, raising their two children, Liza Olive and Rodney Thomas, with a sense of adventure and a love of the outdoors.
Marsha retired from the Laurel School District in 2016, where she left a legacy of kindness, care and laughter. A faithful member of Bethel United Methodist Church and the Laurel Alumni Association, Marsha remained active in the community throughout her life.
She loved being outside — camping with her family at Sandpiper Cove in Virginia when her children were young and later spending long summer days with Jerry at their cherished retreat in Stockton, Md., near the Chincoteague Bay. Whether she was fishing, boating, gardening, or cooking a delicious meal for her family, Marsha most enjoyed the natural world. She especially treasured the time spent working in the greenhouse alongside her brother Kenny, trading the latest news with their many regular customers and telling favorite stories from growing up as they planted.
Marsha’s greatest joy came from being with her family. She adored vacationing with her daughter and grandchildren, cheering on the Phillies, and experiencing live music—especially Chris Stapleton. A natural organizer, she loved planning family gatherings and never missed a chance to catch up with her many relatives, sharing laughter and memories. And she will always be remembered for her enthusiasm for life. This past summer, she entered the “Poor Girls Open,” a fishing tournament run out of Ocean City that benefits cancer research, along with her daughter and a few close friends. It will come to no surprise to anyone who knew Marsha that she landed a 30-pound tuna . . . on her very first offshore fishing trip. It was an unforgettable day.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 54 years, Jerry Murphy; her beloved children; Liza Murphy and Rodney Murphy; grandchildren, Sidney Scott and Murphy Clymer; her sisters, Marlene James, Cheryl Hearn, and Barbara Scarborough; and her brother, Irvin Hastings. She was preceded in death by her parents, Kathryn and Marshall Hastings; her brother, Kenneth Hastings; and her sister, Dawn Steen.
Marsha will be remembered for her great sense of humor, her joyful and generous heart, and a smile that could light up any room. She leaves behind a legacy of laughter, warmth, and the quiet strength of a life well lived.
Services will be privately held.