Theressa House Murphy

Theressa House Murphy, 78, passed away on February 17, 2026, at ECU North Hospital in Roanoke Rapids, NC, after a valiant battle with cancer. She was an effervescent extrovert whose never ending smile—always brightened by her trademark red lipstick—made every room lighter.

Born on June 30, 1947, in Morehead City, she was the firstborn child of Joseph House Jr. and Mariam Garr House. She grew up in Grifton, NC, alongside her siblings Joanna (Townsend), Joseph House III (“Joph,” deceased), and Emma Lou (Kitchens). She graduated from Grainger High School in Kinston and went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Appalachian State University in 1973.

Theressa married Jim Murphy in 1972, and they made their first home together in Roxboro, NC. Their son Jonathan Franklin (Nicole) arrived the following year. After moving to Wake Forest in 1977, she welcomed their second son, William Robert (Allison), in 1981. She spent happy years as a substitute teacher in the Person County Schools, later working in banking and finding deep fulfillment in her time with Wake County Social Services.

She leaves behind six wonderful grandchildren—Jasper, Aven, Max, Maeve, Walt, and Ella—each of whom brought her immense joy.

Theressa was eternally ebullient and upbeat, always ready for a trip, a project, or a challenge. A gifted landscaper, she was happiest with muddy hands and knees, coaxing beauty out of the earth. She spent her final years at Lake Gaston with Jim, traveling to Europe, enjoying the water, and savoring the life they built together.

Final arrangements will be private for immediate family, with her ashes to be dispersed in her beloved Lake Gaston. Memorial contributions may be made to your local animal shelter. Theressa loved all creatures, great and small.