Barbara Kay Murray

Barbara K. (Newby) Murray, 80, of Monroe, passed away peacefully on February 28th, 2026, surrounded by the love she so deeply deserved.

Born 10/30/1945, in Middlesboro, KY, Barbara was the daughter of the late William and Lela Newby.

She was known as Barb to her family and friends, Mom to her children and in-laws, Nana to her grandchildren, and Great Nana to her great-grandchildren. Barb was a woman who could be tough around the edges, and she'd tell you so, but underneath all that was a heart of gold that showed through in everything she did for the people she loved.

For many years, Barb made her living as a hairstylist, bringing the same care and precision to her craft that she brought to every corner of her life. However, her true life's work was always her family.

Barb's journey to heaven was preceded by her husband of 57 years, John E. Murray; her beloved son, Brian Lee Murray; her parents, William and Lela (Cupp) Newby; four brothers. Edward, Bobby, Donny, and Terry Newby, and sister, Mary McCormick.

She leaves behind a legacy of love in her son, Kevin (Brenda) Murray of Monroe; daughter, Kristina Walker of Dundee, MI; daughter-in-law, Beth Murray of Newport, MI; sister, Betty Risden of Monroe; former son-in-law, Ronnie Walker of Adrian, MI who still remains a cherished member of the family; seven grandchildren: Chelsea (Ryan) Rupp, Joshua (Gabby Dixon) Walker, Jessica (Mike) Nash-Theiss, Adam (Avery Timblin) Murray, Tayler (Jacob) Frailey, Bethany (Eli) Albright, and Nicolas (Kaysie Pancone) Murray; and 11 joyful great-grandchildren.

Barb often compared herself to Garfield the cat, and honestly, she wasn't wrong. A little grumpy, fiercely independent, not fond of mornings, and hiding more love than she'd ever openly admit. If you knew her, you got it.

Her home was her domain. Every surface, every corner, inside and out, was maintained to a standard that would make a drill sergeant nervous. The yard got the same treatment, every shrub trimmed, every edge manicured, more out of principle than passion. She wasn't one to volunteer for the kitchen even though she was a tremendous cook. But somehow, everything she touched came out looking perfect.

The classics kept her company. Old classics like The A-Team, Frasier, and Last Man Standing filled her afternoons, and no force on earth could keep her from a new episode of NCIS. Entire evening routines were not rearranged without apology. It simply was not up for discussion.

Her loved ones will remember walking through the door to find her on her sofa, Coke within arm's reach, watching an old rerun for the hundredth time and never forgetting to remind you to take off your shoes. She was always excited to hear what you'd been up to. She softened with age in the most beautiful way. Her love for her family, friends, and every grandchild and great-grandchild only grew deeper as the years went on.

Barb will be remembered for her fire, her devotion, and a love that was never in question, even when she made you earn it. She will be deeply, deeply missed, but never forgotten.

Family and friends may visit from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, Mar. 5th at Bacarella Funeral Home. A celebration of her life will begin at 6 p.m. with sharing of memories by her family. Private interment will be at Roselawn Memorial Park.

Memorial donations are encouraged to Wounded Warriors or Disabled American Veterans.

Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page atwww.bacarellafuneralhome.com.