Ruth A. Murphy

Ruth Ann Murphy passed away peacefully at her home in Hannibal, MO, on January 9, 2026, at the age of 69.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 AM Thursday, January 15, 2026 at Holy Family Catholic Church in Hannibal, MO. Fr. Greg Meystrik will officiate.

Burial will be at Holy Family Catholic Cemetery in Hannibal, MO.

Friends and Family are invited to Ruth's Life Celebration at a visitation that will be from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Wednesday at the James O'Donnell Funeral Home in Hannibal, MO. A prayer service will be held at 4:30 PM on Wednesday at the funeral home.

Born on June 10, 1956, in Sendai, Japan, to Robert E. Bowen and Keiko Nakamura Bowen Callaway, Ruth's vibrant spirit and warm heart touched everyone she knew.

Ruth's life was a beautiful testament to love and family. She married her soulmate, Daniel Murphy, on May 1, 1976, at Blessed Sacrament Church in Hannibal, MO. He survives her, continuing to cherish their shared memories.

A dedicated mother, Ruth is also survived by her two children: Jacki Thurman (Brad) of Hannibal, MO, and Erin Smith (Matt Johnson) of Perry, MO and one son-in-law, Ron Greenwell of Hannibal, MO. Her legacy extends to her seven grandchildren: Keilynn Elliott (Trey), Thomas Thurman (Kylie McAfee), Kaiser Greenwell, Carley Thurman, Joely Greenwell, Mason Smith, and Lela Johnson; and two great-grandchildren: Haven and River, with one more on the way. Ruth's family was the center of her world, and she reveled in every moment spent with them.

Ruth's siblings, Lillie Lewton (Bob), Becky Blevins, Bobbi Canavan (Tim), Daniel Callaway (Mary) and Ronnie Gordon will miss her dearly, as will her stepfather, Jim Callaway and her mother-in-law, Pat Murphy. She leaves behind numerous brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom she adored.

Preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Lindsay Ann Greenwell; her parents; her father-in-law, Joseph B. Murphy; her brother, John Callaway; her nephew, Jerad Whitley; brothers-in-law, Steve Murphy and Gary Tolivar; stepsisters, JoAnn Eusterbrock and Nancy McClintock; stepbrother, Bobby Gordon and her stepmother, Sue Bowen.

Ruth's professional life was marked by her role as an attendance secretary for Hannibal Middle School, where she dedicated over 17 years of service. She left a lasting impact on the lives of countless students and staff.

Ruth's interests and talents were as diverse as they were abundant. An artistic soul, she found joy in painting canvases and creating beautiful flower arrangements. She was the family's go-to for alterations, hemming pants, and crafting countless dresses and Halloween costumes. Ruth's creativity extended to the kitchen, where she was known for her incredible homemade cheesecakes, creative birthday cakes, and the best homemade lasagna.

Her sense of style was impeccable, always tasteful and classy, with a particular fondness for leopard print. Ruth's home was a reflection of her love for decorating.

Ruth's zest for life led her to enjoy many pleasures, from basking in the sun and sand at her favorite beaches in Gulf Shores, AL, and Cancun, Mexico, to the excitement of playing penny slots at the casino. She was the ultimate dance and cheer mom and always supported her grandchildren in all their sports and competitions.

A fan of classic movies, horror films, and "creature features," Ruth also had a liking for true crime shows like the First 48. Her sense of humor, courage, and loving nature will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Ruth was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church.

Pallbearers will be Thomas Thurman, Kaiser Greenwell, Mason Smith, Jamie Whitley, Ronnie Gordon, Richard Renner, and Tom Murphy.

Memorial contributions may be made to Community Loving Care Hospice or to Blessing Cancer Center of Hannibal, MO.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.JamesODonnellFuneralHome.com.