Joan Lillian Murphy

Joan Lillian Murphy, age 91, of Roscommon, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, in Grayling, Michigan, surrounded by her loving family.
Born Aug. 3, 1934, in Grayling to Wilbert and Della (Beck) Simpson, Joan grew up and graduated from Grayling High School in 1951. She married Edward K. "Eddie" Murphy on Jan. 24, 1953, in Roscommon, where they built a warm and welcoming home and raised four children.
Joan's life was a testament to faith, family, and a deep commitment to her community. A devoted member of St. Michael Catholic Church, she gave generously of her time-volunteering in many roles and serving as church secretary.
But her dedication extended far beyond church walls.
Throughout her life, Joan held many roles that reflected her love for people and her community: Operator at the phone company, waitress at Fred's, manager of the Kirtland Community College bookstore, clerk at Ben Franklin in Grayling, Roscommon Village Treasurer, and trustee on the Roscommon Village Council until April 2012.
Her passion for public service continued as a 14-year member of the Roscommon County Housing Commission, where she was honored for her contributions with a commendation by the Roscommon County Board of Commissioners in August 2015.
Joan and Eddie were known for their hospitality and generosity. Their home was a gathering place for neighbors, friends, and anyone in need of a warm meal or a kind word. They cherished every visit, and their door was always open--creating a legacy of kindness and connection that lives on in the hearts of many.
In 2015, Joan moved to Texas to be closer to family, returning last year to the Crawford Continuing Care Center in Grayling. Her family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care she received.
Joan will be remembered for her laughter, unwavering spirit of service, and her boundless love for people.
She is survived by her children: Mary Beth (Robert) Armstrong of Hickory Creek, Texas, and Joseph (Michelle) Murphy of Midland, Michigan; 14 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; as well as in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Eddie; daughters, Janet Kay Gilman and Jerri Lynn Stieler; son, David Murphy; granddaughter, Taryn Murphy; and sisters, Edwina La Chappelle and Barbara Benjamin.
A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, at 11 a.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church, 104 North 6th Street, Roscommon. Visitation begins at 10 a.m. A luncheon will follow at the church, with burial at the Village Cemetery.
If so desired, the family prefers memorial contributions be made in Joan's name to Roscommon County Community Foundation or St. Vincent de Paul Society of Roscommon.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Wagner and Walsh Funeral Directors, Roscommon.