Shirley Yvonne Murphy

It is with great love and deep sadness that we share the passing of our mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend, Shirley Yvonne Murphy, on June 29, 2026, in Moses Lake, Washington. Born to James Carl (J.C.) and Lelah Paxton on October 1, 1935, in Toledo, Illinois. She was the youngest of their three daughters.

Over the years, Shirley lived a life of love and devotion to her faith, family, and community. She had a way of making everyone feel special through her unconditional love and support. Shirley had friends of many different ages and brought joy and laughter to each day. As one of her grandchildren said, “She never met a stranger.”  To meet her was to be seen, remembered, and appreciated. 

Shirley was a marvelous cook; her pies were legendary. For family holidays and community events, she would make fruit pies, cream pies, pumpkin pies, and even mincemeat pies. Shirley learned from experience to make multiple pies for each event since they would often disappear very quickly with requests for more. She, herself, enjoyed eating a wide range of foods- deviled eggs, pomegranate, Lasagna, and Frozen Yogurt were among her favorites.   Although always an avid sports fan, especially if it involved her children and grandchildren, Shirley was also a loyal supporter of the Seahawks and Mariners. She wore their jerseys, slept with team blankets, and had posters on her wall of her favorite players.

Shirley will forever be remembered for her smiles, warmth, and kindness, along with her habit of leaving red and pink kisses on visitors’ cheeks (especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren). She was a beloved mother to 7 children, 19 grandchildren, and 25 great-grandchildren. Her extended family and friends are beyond count. We will miss her dearly, but she will continue to live on in our hearts.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Shirley Yvonne Murphy, please visit our floral store.