Betty Murphy was the surviving spouse of Rev. Floyd Murphy.
Elizabeth “Betty” Murphy, a devoted wife, mother, and woman of deep and abiding faith, passed away surrounded by loved ones on March 28, 2026, just two days shy of her 98th birthday. Born on March 30, 1928, Betty’s long life was a testament to love, service, and quiet strength.
As a preacher’s wife, Betty faithfully stood beside her beloved husband, Floyd, for 69 years, supporting his ministry and nurturing her family with grace and devotion. She was the heart of her home—a loving mother of five who gave selflessly and unconditionally, creating a life filled with warmth, faith, and togetherness.
Music was one of Betty’s greatest gifts and joys. Entirely self-taught, she could sit at the piano and play nearly anything by ear, filling rooms—and hearts—with song. As a choir director, singer, pianist, and performer, she used her talents to glorify God and uplift others, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the blessing of hearing her play or sing.
Betty had a spirit of curiosity and adventure. She loved to travel and explore the world around her. She had once dreamed of becoming an archaeologist—a reflection of her lifelong curiosity and sense of wonder. She was also proud of her heritage and often shared that she was a relative of President George Washington, a connection she held with a sense of honor and family pride. Known for her sharp mind and quick wit, Betty had a wonderful sense of humor and brought laughter and light to those around her. Yet no matter where life took her, her greatest joy was always found in her family and in her faith. She was known for her kindness, gentle presence, and unwavering love—a source of comfort, wisdom, and encouragement to all who knew her.
She is survived by her daughters, Ellen (Jerry Kinlaw), Jayne, and Kathleen (Jeff Zimmerman), and her son, Peter; her cherished grandchildren, Patrick (Kami), Christopher (Amy), Ben, Elizabeth (Brady Thews), and Eric; her beloved great-grandchildren, Jordan (John Patterson), Dakota, Brenna, and Liam; and five great-great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. She was preceded in Heaven by her husband, Reverend Floyd A. Murphy, and her son, John, whom she now joins in eternal peace.
Betty’s life was a beautiful reflection of faith in action—a legacy of love, music, and devotion that will live on in the hearts of her family and all who were touched by her life. Though she will be deeply missed, there is comfort in knowing she has been welcomed home.
A viewing for family and friends [was] held on Saturday, April 4, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Phelps Funeral Home in Winchester, Virginia.
A memorial service will be planned for the near future to celebrate her courageous and blessed life.
She will be dearly missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in our hearts.
Tax deductible donations may be sent to the non-profit:
Pinnacle Living
Retired Clergy Housing
120 Eastshore Drive. Suite 130
Glen Allen, Va. 23059
(Source: https://www.phelpsfunerals.com/obituaries/elizabeth-murphy-16/#!/Obituary)