Sarah Lois Brown Murphy

Sarah Lois Brown Murphy passed away peacefully on the morning of December 24, 2020 at the age of 105. Lois was born on May 23, 1915 to Ernest and Jessie Brown. She lived her entire life in Maryville having graduated from Maryville College in 1937. She taught school for two years and served one year as Director of Education for New Providence Presbyterian Church. She and Judson B Murphy married on June 15, 1940 and three years later had their son, Robert J Murphy. Lois was an active member of New Providence Presbyterian Church for 95 years. She served at New Providence as an Elder, head of the primary department of church school, teacher, choir member for many years, a TLC visitor, circle chairman, PWC moderator and served on various committees. She was president of Chilhowee Club, former member of the Maryville College Board of Directors and served on the Blount County Children’s Home Board. Lois lived an active and full life. She enjoyed going on family beach trips into her nineties. She loved spending time with her family, friends, neighbors and church family. Lois’s family is grateful for all the friends and neighbors who visited and loved Lois.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Judson B Murphy, son Robert J Murphy, brother Robert L Brown and nephew David E Brown. She is survived by her granddaughter Lisa Murphy Rotton and her husband Jeffrey Rotton, great grandchildren Kaitlyn and Preston Rotton, nephew Steven C Brown, grandnieces Cheryl and Sandra as well as their children, and many cousins.

The memorial service and interment with Rev. Dr. Emily J Anderson officiating, will be held at Grandview Cemetery on Wednesday, February 3rd at 3pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to New Providence Presbyterian Church or to Maryville College’s Judson B Murphy Endowed Business Award.