Marcia Dering Murphy

Marcia Dering Murphy, 85, died March 7 after battling Alzheimer's Disease. In addition to her husband of 58 years, William R. Murphy, other family survivors are a daughter, Elizabeth Keenan, her husband Drew, and their children, Logan, Reid, Parker, Annie, and Owen; a son, Will (Kimberlie Thompson) and his children, Maggie, Ethan, and Emmie Murphy. A brother and sister-in law, Garrett and Marie Dering, and two nephews, Billy and his wife, Katie Dering and John and his wife, Patty Dering.

A devoted member of Highland Presbyterian Church, Marcia served as a Deacon, Elder, lay counselor for Stephen Ministry, and on the worship committee. A memorial service will be held there March 28 at 11am, followed by a reception. To celebrate the beautiful life Marcia lived, we encourage guests to wear bright, colorful clothing in place of traditional black. Private burial at Cave Hill Cemetery will precede the service. Visitation is March 27 from 4-7 pm at Highlands Funeral Home. Floral tributes are welcome or memorials may go to the Rapier Music Fund at Highland Presbyterian Church 1011 Cherokee Rd, Louisville, 40204.

Marcia graduated in 1958 from duPont Manual High School and continued her education at the University of Louisville, where she was a proud member of Pi Beta Phi sorority. In 1962, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology. After graduation, she took a position working in the lab at Kosair Children's Hospital on Eastern Parkway and throughout the years at several local physician offices.

April 22, 1967, Marcia married the love of her life, "Murph" at Central Presbyterian, where she was on the cradle roll and a participating member alongside her late parents, William R. and Ethel K. Dering. Marcia and Murph made their home in the Highland's neighborhood where they raised their two children, Elizabeth and Will.

A proud native Louisvillian, Marcia was dedicated and passionate about serving to give back to the community. She volunteered at her children's schools and clubs, hosting team gatherings and church youth group dinners, organizing fundraisers, chaperoning field trips, and serving as Cookie Chair for her daughter's Girl Scout Troop. As a member of the Younger Woman's Club and then later, The Woman's Club of Louisville, Marcia spearheaded many philanthropic events that benefited several different organizations in the community. She was also a member of The Fillies that support the Derby traditions that make Louisville so notable. Marcia was an advocate for the underprivileged, especially for families and children. She served as a family resettlement and naturalization/ citizenship advocate for Kentucky Refugee Ministries and as a Board member for Kentucky Foster Care Review.

As a supporter of the arts, Marcia was a Board member for the Association of Louisville Orchestra where she helped raise funds to enhance musical opportunities in the community. She and Murph regularly attended concerts. They were annual subscribers of Actor's Theatre for over 50 years. In addition, they were members of the Speed Art Museum.

Marcia was a woman on a mission, who wanted to be moving and doing, actively exploring new places and seeking new experiences. Her family teased her that her middle name should be "GO!" Marcia loved planning and going on trips. Over the years she and Murph traveled across the United States and North America including Hawaii, Alaska, Canada, and Mexico as well as 19 countries abroad. One of her favorite tours was to China and Taiwan sponsored by The Speed. In later years, Marcia and Murph spent 6 weeks of the cold winter months in sunny Siesta Key, Florida.

Whether lunching with her many friend groups, soaking up sunshine at her beloved summer escape, Lakeside Swim Club, or celebrating milestone family anniversaries and birthdays at the Pendennis Club, Marcia was zealous about bringing people together. "Mimi", as she was affectionately called, gained her greatest joy from making lasting memories with her eight grandchildren. Sharing stories and laughter during family get-togethers became cherished traditions. Mimi's enthusiasm and unwavering support left a lasting impression on each of them, and her legacy will live on in the love she showered upon her family and the bonds she helped create across generations.

The family wishes to thank Hallmark House and Hosparus Health for their extraordinary caregiving and compassionate support for the past 7 months.

Visitation will take place on Friday, March 27th, from 4-8 pm. at Highlands Funeral Home. A Memorial Service will take place Saturday, March 28th, at 11 am at Highland Presbyterian Church 1011 Cherokee Rd. 40204. Burial will be private.