Search by Name

Search by Name

Suzan "Sue" Murphy

1952 - 2016

Suzan "Sue" Murphy obituary, 1952-2016, Phoenix, AZ

BORN

1952

DIED

2016

Suzan Murphy Obituary

Murphy, Suzan ("Sue") Hartwell
64, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family on March 14, 2016 in Chandler, Arizona. She was born on February 25, 1952 in Ithaca, New York, but spent most of her life in Phoenix. She earned her bachelor's degree at ASU and her Masters in Public Health from the U.C. Berkeley School of Public Health. While at ASU, Sue met her husband and best friend, Mike Murphy. They were inseparable for 41 years. For the last 22 years, Sue worked for the U.S. Public Health Service at the Phoenix Indian Medical Center. Sue passionately served the Native community through the implementation of numerous health programs. In particular, Sue championed breastfeeding among new mothers, often taking late-night calls and meeting patients in their homes. Sue and Mike raised four children: Tim, Chris, Erin and Kate. They remember her as an ever-present source of support and positivity. She sewed their Halloween costumes and taught them how to change a flat tire. Her favorite thing to do was to share a meal with her family at their favorite restaurant, Don Jose's. Sue will be forever missed. She leaves a legacy of compassion and love that will survive in her children, grandchildren, her husband and the countless lives she enriched.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Mar. 27, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for Suzan Murphy

Not sure what to say?





5 Entries

Tina Rae Begay

January 7, 2018

I worked with Sue at PIMC when I was a student during my summer externship. We worked on the Breastfeeding data, which later was presented at conferences. We both knew the importance of breastfeeding. I'm happy to see that her work is implemented still. Sue gave encouragement to me while I completed my Acupuncture and Herbal studies and again while studying for the National Boards...I'm shocked to learn of her passing. Sue, you're a beautiful soul.

Marc Camacho

May 10, 2016

She was truly a blessing to our family ... May You Forever Rest In Paradise Sue

Cheri Camacho

May 10, 2016

We are very sad to hear of your passing. I am very thankful to have had you enter our lives when Marc & I first became parents. You taught us so much and for that I will always be blessed to have known you. You and your words of encouragement, smile, and kindness will always be in our hearts and memory. I will miss our visits so very much. Rest in peace my friend Sue.

Linda Smith

April 19, 2016

Sue's sunny humor and personality will be missed at USBC meetings and conferences. Her dedication to supporting breastfeeding within IHS is legendary, and I'm deeply saddened to hear of her death. Peace.

Esta Coin

April 18, 2016

I am saddened to hear of Sue's passing. I worked with her at PIMC and learned a lot from her. She was vigilant in encouraging young mothers to breastfeed. I have fond memories of her sessions in the evenings to teach the expectant moms the importance of breastfeeding for the health of the children of Indian families. Sue was always smiling and genuinely cared for her co-workers and patients. God Speed Sue.

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 results

Make a Donation
in Suzan Murphy's name

Memorial Events
for Suzan Murphy

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Suzan's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Suzan Murphy's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more