Barbara Moss

1958 - 2025

Barbara Moss, 67, of Conifer Colorado, died on September 17, 2025, of a heart attack while road tripping with her kindred-spirit friend. The day before, she was in her happiest element near a body of water.
Barbara was born on August 2, 1958, to Louis Moss and Francis Wertkin in Brooklyn New York. After college, Barbara felt the call of the mountains and road tripped to Colorado in 1981. On her first day in Colorado, Barbara visited the Denver Public Library. There, she met her husband, Michael Richard Murphy. Barbara quickly settled into the Conifer mountains and completed her master's degree in special education. After giving birth to her first daughter, she went back to school and achieved her master's in psychology and became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Barbara was an LCSW for over thirty years working with kids, adolescents, and families.
In 1986, Barbara married Michael, and they had two children, Sarianna and Maura Murphy. Every summer, the Murphy family would road trip across the country collecting antiques, listening to musicals and eclectic music, and spending time in Maine. Together, Barbara and Michael encouraged their daughters to be life-long learners, have a curiosity for life, and always use creative expression in their day-to-day lives.
In 2011, Michael died, leaving Barbara, her two kids, and their family dog. Shortly after, Barbara retired and explored multiple passion projects. Barbara volunteered with CASA and worked on protecting immigration rights. Barbara was an advocate for creating an inclusive world, especially for the LGBTQIA2S+ community. In her spare time, Barbara loved hiking, yoga, and dance; she attended "Ageless Ballet" and tap classes. She also loved a good bagel with cream cheese and eating out at restaurants. Her favorite activities included attending shows with her daughters, road tripping, and spending time with friends.
Barbara was predeceased by Michael and survived by her daughters. Her daughters have scheduled a shiva for family and friends. In lieu of flowers, her family is asking that donations are made to Cleo Parker Robinson Dance or the Trevor Project.