Frances Eva Sexton Murphy, aged 90, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, in
Hendersonville, North Carolina. Born on December 18, 1935, in
London, Ohio, she lived a life full of love, dedication, and service to her family and community.
Frances began her professional journey as a nurse at the VA Hospital in
London, Ohio. It was there that she met her beloved husband, Kenneth T. Murphy, while caring for him as a patient. Their shared journey led to marriage and the creation of a loving family. During the years her children were growing up, Frances devoted herself to being a nurturing mother and homemaker.
As her children grew, Frances embarked on a new career path, first as a bookkeeper for H&R Block, and later as a successful real estate agent. Her work ethic and attention to detail were evident in every role she undertook.
Beyond her professional life, Frances had a passion for numbers and enjoyed solving Sudoku puzzles and playing Mah Jong on her computer. She was an avid sports fan, with a particular love for football, and spent many joyful hours golfing and playing cards, especially bridge, with family and friends. Frances also participated in several bowling leagues over the years.
Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. Frances was an active member of Mary Help of Christians Church in Fairborn, Ohio and later at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Hendersonville. She was also a dedicated member of The Daughters of Isabella in Ohio.
Frances was preceded in death by her parents, Margaret Elvira Hysell Sexton and Joseph Gabriel Sexton; her husband, Kenneth T. Murphy; her son, Patrick Timothy Murphy; her brothers, James Sexton and Charles Sexton; and her sisters, Mary Belcher, Margaret Ortlieb, and Patricia Duffy.
She is survived by her sister, Dorothy Henry; her sons, Samuel Murphy and wife Holly, and Phillip Murphy and wife Marie-Louise; her daughters, Kathleen Murphy and wife Kris Baker, and Renee Miller and husband Scott.
Frances leaves behind a legacy of love in her grandchildren: Brooks Murphy, Kennedie Murphy, Margo Murphy, McKenzie Murphy, Miles Murphy and wife Mary Campbell, Jarrett Miller, Amanda Miller and husband Mark Gilbert, Melanie Miller, Nicole Schafer, Misty Jones, Kaylee Lewis, and Cody Gwynn. She is also survived by her cherished great-grandchildren, Miles "Kingery" Murphy, Jr. and Brynn Murphy.
Frances will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her family and faith. A service is planned for March 6, 2026, at Mary Help of Christians Church in Fairborn, Ohio. Her family also invites those who knew her to honor her memory in their own way.
Frances's spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her.