Patricia "Patty" Lynne Murphy

Patricia “Patty” Lynne (Carothers) Murphy, 85, peacefully passed away on July 18, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, and countless memories that will forever be cherished by those fortunate enough to know her. Patty was born on October 19, 1940, in Rochester, Pennsylvania, to Arthur and Rachel Carothers. She grew up with the values of kindness, hard work, and unwavering devotion to her faith in the Lord and family—qualities that would define the rest of her life. On September 9, 1961, Patty married the love of her life, Edward "Skip" Frances Murphy. True to the spirit of beginning life's adventures together, they left immediately after their wedding to start their new life in Siloam Springs, Arkansas. It was a journey whose destination would become their home for the next six decades. After arriving in Siloam Springs, Patty worked in the business office at John Brown University. Before long, however, she discovered the career that brought her the greatest joy: raising her family. She lovingly embraced not only her own children but also anyone else who wandered into her life needing encouragement, guidance, a home-cooked meal, or even just someone to fuss over them a little – including the entire Sound Generation family from JBU and many other JBU students. When all of her children and bonus grandchildren were grown and making their own way in the world, Patty returned to the workforce at the Greystone Estate, where she remained until it was sold and she officially retired. Those who knew her suspect "retirement" simply meant she had more time to take care of everyone else. Patty especially treasured being "Mimi." Her grandsons—Bryce Murphy, Canyon Cross, and Declan Murphy—were among the greatest joys of her life. She was equally proud of her bonus grandchildren, Derek Latham and Sarah Ingram Mycka, and her bonus great grandchildren, Sutton Mycka and Sloane Mycka. Whether she was cheering them on, spoiling them just enough to keep their parents on their toes, or reminding them to eat something before they left the house, she made each of them feel deeply loved. Patty had a gift for making people feel welcome. She possessed a quiet strength and a generous heart. Although our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing Patty has been reunited with Skip, undoubtedly already making sure everything in heaven is organized just the way it should be. Her love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to family will continue to live on in the countless lives she touched. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Skip, her brother, Richard, and by her parents, Arthur and Rachel Carothers. She leaves behind her children, Scott Eric Murphy (Brandi) and Lesa Cross (Waco); her grandsons, Bryce Murphy, Canyon Cross, and Declan Murphy; her bonus grandchildren, Derek Latham and Sarah Ingram Mycka; brothers, Dale Carothers and Herb Carothers (Lori), and sister, Carol Scott (Ralph), numerous relatives, cousins, and many dear friends whose lives were made brighter by knowing her. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Patty's life during visitation on Friday, July 24, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Wasson Funeral Home in Siloam Springs, Arkansas. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 25, 2026, at Oak Hill Cemetery in Siloam Springs. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale, Arkansas, in grateful appreciation for the exceptional compassion, dignity, and loving care they provided Patty during the final days of her life. Their kindness brought comfort not only to Patty but to her entire family, and they will always be deeply grateful.

Tributes

Patricia "Patty" Lynne Murphy

October 19, 1940 - July 18, 2026