Kay Murphy

Kay Murphy obituary, Winterset, IA

Kay Murphy

Kay Murphy Obituary

Visit the Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory - Winterset Chapel website to view the full obituary.

Kay L. Murphy, age 85, of Stuart, Iowa, formerly of Winterset, Iowa, passed away on July 23rd, 2025 at the Stuart Community Care Center.

Kay was born on December 7th, 1939 in Atlantic, Iowa, the daughter of John Lyle and Ruby Maxine (Conrad) Woodring. She graduated from the Atlantic Community School District in 1957. Kay was married to Robert Francis Murphy in Wiota, Iowa on April 23rd, 1960. Three sons were born to this marriage; Jeff, Tom, and Dave.

Through the years, Kay worked many different jobs. While living in Atlantic, she worked at the Drug Store, at the insurance office, and would detassle corn. While living in Winterset, Kay worked for Coast to Coast for 10 years, the furniture store, JC Penny's, Anchored Wall, and C&L Construction for 10 years where she retired from.

When Kay was in her younger years, one of the things she loved to do the most was go roller skating. In her free time, Kay loved her involvement in the Lakeview Country Club as an avid golfer, and the Young Mothers Club of Winterset. While living in Atlantic, she was involved in the Young Mothers Club, as well as a Doe with the Elk's club. She adored watching her grandchildren in all their activities. Photography held a special place in Kay's heart, and often tied that passion in with traveling, where she had been to most of the states in the United States. While at home, Kay was an avid reader and loved to relax listening and singing to country music.

Kay was always full of laughter and joy. She was lighthearted and tried to make everyone laugh that she came in contact with. She loved her family fiercely and often said "I wouldn't take a million dollars for any of my boys" Her infectious spirit will be missed by all.

Kay is preceded in death by her parents; husband Robert in 2019; and a sister: Shirley Lett in 2023.

Kay is survived by her sons: Jeff (Michelle) Murphy, of Solomon, Kansas, Tom Murphy of Cumming, Iowa, and Dave (Dawn Wright) Murphy of Winterset, Iowa; 6 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren; brother: Charles (Judy) Woodring of Lakewood, Colorado; as well as many more relatives and friends.

A public visitation will be on Friday, August 1st, 2025 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at the Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home and Crematory-Winterset Chapel. A private innichement at Iowa Veterans Cemetery will follow in the future.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.caldwellparrish.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home & Crematory - Winterset Chapel

1823 North John Wayne Dr., Winterset, IA 50273

How to support Kay's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Kay Murphy's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more