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Barbara Owen Brock - Murphy, of Easley, a devoted mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away on February 3, 2026, leaving a legacy of love and kindness that will resonate forever with those who knew her. Born on November 18, 1943, in Greenville, South Carolina, to the late James F. and Myrtle K. Owen, Barbara was a beacon of light and joy to many.
Throughout her life, Barbara dedicated herself to nurturing and educating children, a passion she embraced wholeheartedly. Known affectionately as "Miss Barbara," she taught youth Bible training classes alongside her husband and led the church preschool choir. For an impressive forty years, Barbara was a pivotal figure at Geer Memorial Baptist Child Development Center, where she devoted the last half of her tenure as director.
As a mother, Barbara was wonderful. She instilled a love of reading in her children, spending countless hours reading to them, a cherished activity that continued into their own families. Her attentiveness shone through in every aspect of her parenting, whether it was taking them to piano lessons or cheering them on at various activities. Barbara's nurturing spirit evolved when she became a grandmother, a role she embraced with pure joy and love.
Barbara's life was rich with memories made alongside her first husband, Gene Brock. They met at church, forging a bond that blossomed into a beautiful marriage lasting 39 years until his passing. Together, they shared adventures exploring National Parks and traversing Canada, creating a lifetime of memories. They found joy in nature, often walking together in their beloved woods.
In the later years of her life, Barbara met Michael Murphy, a companion who rekindled the warmth of love in her heart. Their six years together were filled with joy, laughter, and shared moments that Barbara held dear.
Outside her professional and family life, Barbara enjoyed crocheting and sewing clothes for her loved ones, ensuring they were wrapped in warmth and care. Her faith played a central role in her life, a foundation she shared openly with those around her. Singing in the church choir brought her immense joy, allowing her to express her spirituality through music.
Barbara is survived by her husband, Michael Murphy; her daughter, Laura Brock Kroening (Mark); her grandchildren, Owen Kroening Hernandez (Aaron), and Conner Carlson (John Brown); her great-grandchildren, Thalia Elaine Hernandez and Rene Atlas Hernandez; a brother, John E. Owen; and many nieces and nephews that she loved.
She is predeceased by her aforementioned parents; her son, Jonathon Eugene Brock; and her brothers, Robert Carroll Owen, Jerry Flemming Owen, and Dale Anthony Owen.
Her family will host a visitation and memorial service at Geer Memorial Baptist Church, 911 South Fifth Street, Easley, SC. The visitation will be held on February 14, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, followed by a memorial service at 5:00 PM.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Opportunity Village Dream Center, 111 Hillcrest Drive, Easley, SC 29640.
Visit RobinsonFuneralHomes.com or Robinson Funeral Home & Crematory – Powdersville Road, Easley.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1425 Powdersville Road, Easley, SC 29642


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