Obituary of Dawn Murphy
Dawn Murphy, 90, died November 29, 2019 at Juniper Village at Brookline in State
College, Pennsylvania.
Born March 15,1929 in Johnson City, New York, she was the daughter of Ethel and
Arthur Saunders. Growing up on a 90 acre dairy farm and commercial apple orchard,
Dawn was part of an extended family business. She attended a one room school
through eighth grade learning cooperation and self-reliance.
Dawn graduated from Johnson City High School and married Lloyd Murphy on July
11, 1946. They enjoyed four decades of active family life until his death in 1990. Her
parents and sister, Doris Fruci, preceded her in death and her brother Kenneth survives
in Westford, Massachusetts.
Dawn's three daughters and two sons in law survive: Kathleen and Daniel Jones in
State College, Pennsylvania, Bonnie and Wally Allert in Ione, California, and Melody
Murphy of Westerville, Ohio.
Seven grandchildren provided excitement and fulfillment. Erika, Megan, Evan, Jessica,
Drew, Ben, and Brooke were close to her heart. There are seven great grandchildren as
well: Owen, Claire and Jordan Watts, Chloe, Will and Finn Davis, and Sloan Stuart.
While raising her daughters in Johnson City, Dawn was known for welcoming others
into her home. Family and friends found encouragement, stability, and humor in her
presence. The Murphy home was filled with music, laughter and Christian example.
Dawn was a prayer warrior and counselor to many friends who sought her advice.
During the 1970's, Dawn developed a Shaklee distributorship that initiated many
additional friendships, created opportunities for travel, and allowed her business
abilities to flourish. Her husband Lloyd joined her in the business, which continues
today, 50 years later.
Relocating permanently to Cocoa Beach, Florida in the 1990's, Dawn fulfilled her
dream of living on a beach. As a preferred destination for family and friends, her Florida
home was known for reunions, outdoor activities, and beachfront fun.
Dawn was, most of all, devoted to her family. Her generosity and concern for others
was constant. Her smile was bright and her encouragement was timely and welcomed.
A celebration of Dawn's life will take place in Florida at the convenience of the family.
Arrangements are under the care of Koch Funeral Home in State College. Friends and
family may sign the online guest book at www.kochfuneralhome.com.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dawn Murphy, please visit Tribute StoreWho We Are:
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Koch Funeral Home
F. Glenn Fleming, Supervisor
2401 S. Atherton Street
State College, PA 16801
(814) 237-2712
(814) 238-0482 fax
admin@kochfuneralhome.com
A branch of:
John B. Brown Funeral Home, Inc.
Douglas A. Hallinan, Supervisor
417 Washington Street
Huntingdon, PA 16652
(814) 643-1256
(814) 643-1257 fax
admin@johnbbrownfuneralhome.com