Shirley Jewel Vess Murphy

Shirley Jewel Vess Murphy, age 89, went home to be with the Lord November 27, 2025, with family by her side.

She was born on February 9, 1936 at home in McDowell County. She was the daughter of the late Otis and Flossie Elliott Vess.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Clayton Champton Murphy, along with her siblings, Elizabeth Vess, Roy Vess, Frank Vess, and Hazel McPeters.

Shirley was a devoted mother, wife, sister, mamaw, and friend. She was a dedicated caregiver who worked many years in the healthcare system, touching many lives. Shirley was a proud member of the Eastern Star of Old Fort. She was known for her kindness and love that she poured out for all. She loved to laugh richly, a sound that went straight to your soul.

Left to cherish her memories are her five children, Bobbi Burgin (Steve), Kathy Burgin (Fred), Sandy Dufresne (Dave), Karen Tipton (Randy), and Eric Murphy (Lisa); two sisters, Wilma Davis (Lloyd) and Janice Creasman; one brother, Theodore Vess; twelve grandchildren; twenty-four great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Monday, December 1, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Mt. Hebron Wesleyan Church. She will be laid to rest at the Clayton and Shirley Murphy Family Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 30, 2025 at Beam Funeral Service.