Rita J. Murphy

Rita J. Murphy Battle Creek Rita J. Murphy, 86, died peacefully at Battle Creek Health System Wednesday, November 4, 2009. She was born in Sterling, Illinois to John and Ann (Messer) Hemminger on October 14, 1923. As a child Rita moved to Buchanan, MI, where she was raised on the family farm. She graduated from Buchanan High School, worked in Chicago and later Niles, MI. Outside her home, Rita was employed in Battle Creek at the former Shopper's Fair, Zeller's Donut Shop and Hennink's Luggage & Leather Goods. Rita was married to Robert L. Murphy in Buchanan, MI on June 15, 1946. Rita was preceded in death by her husband, Robert on March 7, 2000; and by a brother, Barney Hemminger. Surviving are two daughters, Mary E. Lum and Jo Ann Armstrong, both of Battle Creek; four grandchildren, Megan Clapper, Kim (Chris) Buchanan, Paul (Sara) Armstrong and Scott Lum; three great-grandchildren, Brandon (Alicia Merrill) Lum, Kyle Clapper and Hunter Lum; a great great-grandson, Blake Lum and three brothers, James (Pat) Hemminger of Galien, MI, Jack Hemminger of Kenton, MI and Gail (Pat) Hemminger of Newport, TN. Rita loved being a homemaker, taking care of her family and their pets and going shopping. She enjoyed having lunches with her friends at Glenn Valley Clubhouse. She had political opinions and enjoyed debating her steadfast views. Services for Rita's family will be held at Ft. Custer National Cemetery. Arrangements are by Farley-Estes & Dowdle Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society - Calhoun Area. Personal messages for the family may be placed at www.farleyestesdowdle.com.