Betty M. Murphy

Betty Marie Murphy, age 93, of Zanesville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on December 12, 1931, in Blue Rock, Ohio, Betty was the eldest child of Marion and Erma (Louella Knapp) Allison.

A woman of remarkable strength, warmth, and resilience, Betty devoted her life to her family and lived every moment with deep love and purpose. She was a proud mother, grandmother, sister, and friend—roles she embraced with unwavering dedication.

Betty is survived by her cherished daughters, Sally (Chuck) Hammer and Sherry (Billy) Rogers; her beloved brother, John (Nancy) Allison; her daughter-in-law, Jean Mitchell; and numerous grandchildren, all of whom she adored and nurtured.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Marion and Erma; her beloved husband and soulmate, Kenneth Murphy; her children, Susan Kennedy, Steve Mitchell, Sandra Johnson, and Sheila Mitchell; and Jerold Mitchell, the father of her children.

Betty’s life was filled with both quiet moments of grace and vibrant adventures. She had a deep love for the outdoors, finding joy in fishing, hunting, swimming, boating, jet skiing, and archery. One of her favorite pastimes was bicycling up and down Route 60, taking in the beauty of the landscape and enjoying the freedom of the open road. She had a competitive spirit and a sharp mind, excelling in bowling, darts, and euchre—always a fierce but friendly competitor.

A dedicated caregiver and hard worker, Betty served as an LPN and spent time caring for others at Bethesda Hospital. She was also a trailblazer in business, serving as the owner of Muskingum Landfill and Muskingum Sanitation for many years—roles she fulfilled with diligence, pride, and a strong sense of responsibility to her community.

Above all, Betty was deeply family-bonded. Her happiest times were those spent surrounded by her children and grandchildren, sharing stories, laughter, and love. Her legacy is one of strength, compassion, and enduring love—a life well lived and a spirit that will remain with us always.

A graveside service for immediate family will be held to lay Betty to rest with love and dignity. A celebration of her life will be held at 1 pm on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at the Wayne Township Hall, 216 Bridge Street, Duncan Falls, Ohio, where extended family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the remarkable woman she was.