Darlene Murphy

1939 - 2025

Darlene Murphy

March 31, 1939 - October 9, 2025

Darlene Murphy, age 86, of Spring Green, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, October 9, 2025, surrounded by her six loving children. Darlene was born on March 31, 1939, in Richland Center, WI, the daughter of William and Elizabeth (Gruber) Brummer.

Following graduation from Spring Green High School, she attended UW Platteville.

She was united in marriage to Howard "Howie" Murphy on September 26, 1959, and together they built a life centered around family, faith, and community.

Darlene dedicated herself first and foremost to her family as a loving homemaker and an amazing cook. She learned her culinary skills working alongside her grandmother Mary and mother Elizabeth. She was also known for her warm hospitality and delicious meals that brought everyone together. After raising her children, she worked for many years at the local community banks in Spring Green, where she was a friendly and familiar face to many in the community.

She was also a devoted coach's wife, supporting Howie throughout his 28-year career coaching the River Valley football team while he taught at the high school. Whether cheering from the sidelines or helping behind the scenes, Darlene was a steady and encouraging presence in the lives of countless student-athletes and their families.

Darlene was a faithful member of St. John's Catholic Church, where she found strength in her faith and fellowship.

She is survived by six children: Cindy (Jim) Liegel, Mike (Linda) Murphy, Dan (Judy) Murphy, Lisa (Ray) Wahl, Carleen (Tim) Humpal, and Karen (Dan) Hackl; grandchildren: Josh (Catrina) Wahl, Justin (Kaylee) Wahl, Shane (Kasie) Murphy, Taylor (Sarah) Murphy, Molly Liegel, Jenna (Joe) Richter, Shannon Murphy, Jordan (Stuart) Vanden Heuvel, Courtney Murphy, Kayla Hackl, Collin (Consuelo) Humpal, Adam Liegel, Jacob (Peyton) Hackl, Allison Humpal, and Sarah Hackl; 14 great-grandchildren; her two sisters Mary Jane Brummer and Barbra Brummer (Steve Zwettler); sisters-in-law Nancy Brummer and Carol Murphy; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Elizabeth Brummer; Her Loving Husband Howard Murphy, two brothers, William and Robert Brummer.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. John's Catholic Church in Spring Green, with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held on Monday, October 13, 2025, at St. John's Catholic Church from 4:00 PM–7:00 PM, and again on Tuesday from 10:00 AM until the time of Mass.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John's Catholic Church or Agrace Hospice. Online condolences available at http://www.staffordfuneralhomes.com. The Richardson-Stafford Funeral Home in Spring Green is assisting the family with arrangements.

Sincere thank you to Dr. Olson, the staff of River Valley Medical Center, Meadows Assisted Living and Memory Care, and Agrace Hospice Care.