Marlene Anna Murphy

Marlene Murphy passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 7th, at the age of 87 years young.

Born in Salt Lake City, Utah on September 13th 1937, to Arthur and Virginia Thornwall. Marlene attended South High School. On August 6th, 1955, she married James Murphy, and together they had two daughters and built a life filled with family and friends. Marlene worked as a checker at Auerbach’s and later at Smith’s, where she spent 30 years before retiring. Her friendly and outgoing nature helped her form many lasting friendships during those years.

Marlene was a proud member of the Red Hat Society, where she enjoyed many joyful events. She loved shopping, going out to lunch with friends and family, and, later in life, found comfort and joy in caring for her beloved dogs, Winston and Morrie. Although she was diagnosed with macular degeneration in her 60s, which eventually limited her ability to drive, Marlene adapted to life with vision impairment with resilience. Her unintentional but genuine sense of humor brought smiles to everyone around her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her brothers; her daughter, Jamie; her husband, Jim; and her cherished dogs, Winston and Morrie. Marlene is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Deanna and Dan; her favorite grandson, James; her favorite granddaughter, Marissa and grandson-in-law Charles; and her great-grandchildren, Ines and Ewan. Along with Dan’s children who became her grandkids and great-grandkids, who were a cherished part of her extended family.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Ability Hospice, especially Savannah, Chelsea, Christie, and Liz, for their compassionate care and support in Marlene’s final weeks. A special, heartfelt thanks goes to her sister-in-law and best friend, Janet Thornwall, who was Marlene’s closest companion and steadfast source of love and support throughout her life, right up until the end.

Memorial Services will be held on Wednesday November 13th  from 6:00 – 8:00 pm, at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Guests are encouraged to use the parking and entrance on the north side of the building. Graveside services will be held on November 14th at 11:00 am Lake Hills Cemetery, 10055 South State Street, Sandy.