Barbara Etheredge Murphy

Barbara Etheredge Murphy, 87, formerly of Atlanta and Big Canoe Georgia, passed away Thursday, August 14, 2025 at Saint George Village in Roswell. Mrs. Murphy was born in Atlanta, the second of three children to Joe and Catherine Etheredge. She graduated from Sacred Heart High School, and met her future husband, Harry H. Murphy Jr. during a Newman Club outing at Indian Creek Lodge in 1955. They were married at Immaculate Conception Church in May 1956 and their first child was born exactly nine months and nine days later. Harry embarked on his career in journalism, and their family grew as they moved from Atlanta to Savannah, Gainesville, and Charlotte before returning to settle in Atlanta in 1967. They welcomed their seventh and final child in 1969. Barbara earned her Education degree at Georgia State University and worked as a librarian at Emory Law Library until retiring in 1988. Harry and Barbara enjoyed traveling with The Friendship Force and welcomed many travelers to their home in Druid Hills. By the time they retired their passports, the pair had visited all seven continents. Barbara loved a good laugh, a good party and a strong drink. She combined all three at the family's legendary St. Patrick's Day party held every March at their home on Briarcliff Road. Barbara E. Murphy is survived by her children Patrick, Timothy, Kathleen Schaffer, Harry Murphy III, Erin Frazier, Barbara A. Murphy, and Heather Murphy Gerdes. She loved being "Grandmom" and spoiled her 12 fantastic grandkids unabashedly. Her daughters and sons in law, and eight nieces and nephews all have special memories of her. Her sister, Mary Murray of Skidaway Island remembers her sister with love. There will be a funeral mass Monday, August 18th at 10:30am at St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church in Roswell. To remember Barbara, finish a crossword puzzle, play a round of Trivial Pursuit, have a screwdriver or make a donation to St. Vincent de Paul Society.