Shirley Murphy, 81, passed away peacefully at her residence on Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024. She was affectionately called “Big Momma, Shirl, and Shirley Faye” by those who loved her.
She was born on July 8, 1942, in Pleasant Hill to Gordon and Alice Rains.
She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend to all. Shirley had several hobbies including cooking, collecting recipes, making jewelry and pillows. Her love for cooking was put to good use for several years by serving as recipe coordinator for the Louisiana Fur and Wildlife Festival cookbook. Shirley enjoyed making jewelry and as her collection grew, she would display her creativity at local craft shows for others to enjoy. During a three year stay in Houston, Shirley made pillows for the cardiac surgery patients at a local hospital, the homeless and residents at an elderly living complex. She became known as the “pillow lady”. Most of her life was spent in Cameron where she was a member of the Wakefield United Methodist Church, Order of the Eastern Stars and Cameron Community Action Agency. She was always so proud of her three grandchildren and their accomplishments. You could always find her in the crowd as she cheered for their teams. Throughout the years, Shirley was a secretary for local oilfield supply companies and a nurturing homemaker for her family. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Reggie Murphy (Kim) and Randee Sue Dupin (Dennis); grandchildren, Dex Murphy (Sara), Nicole Dupin Flaggert (Jake), and Hannah Dupin Fryar (Beau); great grandchildren, Aubrey Murphy, Rhett Flaggert, and Alden Fryar; sister, Peggy Bonsall; brother-in-law, J.C. Murphy (Lois); and numerous nieces and nephews. And all her guardian angels that have watched over her the last few years.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Doyle Rains; and the father of her children, Wendell C. Murphy.
A memorial service to celebrate her life was held at Johnson Funeral Home on Saturday, Jan. 6, at 3 p.m. Visitation was held at the funeral home on Saturday from 1 p.m. until the start of the service.
Cremation has been entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home.
(Paid Memorial)