Barbara Murphy

Barbara “Barb” Murphy, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2025, surrounded by her devoted daughters. She was 94 years old. Born on May 11, 1931, on a farm in Yorkville, Illinois, Barb was one of three children. She was preceded in death by her sister, Marlyn Jean Lamb (Bob), and is survived by her cherished brother, Warren Knight (Marion) and sister-in-law, with whom she shared a lifelong bond.

After graduating from high school, Barb began carving out her own path in the world. Her life took a beautiful turn in 1959 when she met the love of her life, John Murphy, in Aurora, Illinois. Together, they built not only a home but a rich and joy-filled life. Side by side, they raised four daughters—Jean Spaeth (Bill), Beth Jankowski (Ed), Barbie Murphy (Yani), and Amy Murphy—instilling in them the importance of kindness, community, and family.

Barb was endlessly supportive of her children’s pursuits, attending every game, concert, and school event she could. She was a constant presence, a steady cheerleader, and a loving anchor. John and Barb’s home in Aurora became a haven for friends and neighbors. Whether hosting ice-skating parties, lively pig roasts, or spirited volleyball games, the Murphy house was known for its warmth, laughter, and open doors.

Later in life, John and Barb discovered the driftless region, where they found both adventure and peace. It became their sanctuary, a place where they built new memories and eventually retired. Surrounded by the rolling hills and quiet woods of Vernon County, they embraced the community and landscape wholeheartedly. After John’s passing, Barb settled in Viroqua and became a cherished part of the Maplewood community.

Later in life, Barb experienced an unexpected and profound blessing when the son she had placed for adoption, David Mitchel (Sue), found her through Illinois’ open adoption records. Their reunion brought great joy to them both, and they were able to share a meaningful relationship that lasted lovingly through the end of her life.

Though her mobility waned in her later years, her spirit never dimmed. She continued to delight in the countryside she loved—taking long drives, visiting Amish bakeries and produce stands, and enjoying Friday fish fries. The beauty of the place mirrored the beauty of her own generous, steadfast heart.

Above all, Barb’s family was the great joy of her life. She leaves behind a legacy of love that stretches across generations. She will be deeply missed by her grandchildren: Andrea Spaeth (Brian), children George and Henry; Jonathan Jankowski (Amanda), children Ashleigh and Isiaha; Lauren Ngo (Scott), children Nolan and Madison; Joshua Jankowski (Sydney); Stephanie Juarez (Michael), children Olivia, Izabella, and Elena; Ryan Jankowski (Amy), child Liam; and John Tsingas and Anastasia Tsingas. Each of them carries a piece of her spirit—her warmth, her strength, and her boundless love.

Barb’s life was defined by compassion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the people she loved. She was a matriarch in every sense of the word—steadfast, proud, nurturing, and wise. Her family will forever remember her love of good food, her great sense of humor, her unwavering acceptance and openness towards others, and the deep comfort of her presence.

She leaves behind a world made better by her time in it. Special thanks to the Maplewood staff and Hospice, their love and care was nothing but remarkable.

Mom, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, Sister, and Friend—Barb will forever be missed and forever loved.

Donations can be made in memory of Barbara Murphy to Maplewood Terrace Viroqua, WI 54665.

A Memorial Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at Vosseteig Funeral Home in Westby. Visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. until the time of the service. A reception will follow.