Susan Jean Murphy

September 16, 1942 – April 10, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, Susan Jean Murphy.

Susan was born September 16, 1942, in Bluffton, Ind., to Roy and Nina Mayer. Susan is survived by her husband, Michael Murphy. They married on July 25, 1964. Their bond was one of mutual respect, enduring love, and unwavering companionship. Together, they raised two daughters, Jana (Jason) Sandlin of Loveland, Ohio, and Audra (Daniel) Shock of Noblesville.

Susan was also a loving grandmother to Lilly and Kenley Sandlin, Madelyn and Gloria-Kellyn Merrell, and Paxton Shock. Susan took immense pleasure in attending her grandchildren’s activities and cheering them on. She loved spending time with them and hearing about their daily lives and life endeavors. She was deeply committed to her family and was a beacon of love and pillar of support.

Susan was the creator of magic and special memories for her family. She made the birthday cakes and meals, celebrated the half-birthdays of her grandchildren, and planned family vacations. She decorated for every holiday and started the fun gift exchange at Christmas. She made every family gathering special and had an innate ability to create lasting memories. She also made the days in between special with her care and supportive nature.

Not only did Susan make a positive impact on her family, she touched the lives of many people through her volunteer work and day to day interactions. She volunteered in many roles including serving on a suicide hotline, as an English as a Second Language teacher, and at her grandchildren’s schools. She collected Top Value & S&H Green Stamps to help Methodist Hospital acquire two artificial kidney machines. She was dedicated to serving others and carried a sincere desire to make a difference in her community.

Susan spent her life pouring her love into her children, grandchildren, and anyone who had the fortune of crossing her path. Her legacy of love will live on in her family and in the lives of the people she touched.

Susan was a member of the United Methodist Church. She was involved in Bible Study groups and supported global mission efforts. She was an advocate for social justice and put her faith and love into action.

Susan attended South Side High School in Fort Wayne, Manchester College for a Bachelor’s Degree, and Ball State University for a Master’s Degree. She was both a teacher and a successful real estate broker before her retirement. She found the perfect homes for she and Mike, her children, and many friends.

Susan was a woman of many passions. She had a keen eye as a photographer, capturing the beauty in both ordinary and extraordinary moments. She enjoyed sewing, boating, singing, playing the piano, and was always willing to proofread a paper or book. She loved traveling by RV and explored much of the United States.

Susan was empathetic and nonjudgmental, strong in her convictions, and thoughtful in her decisions. She led with both head and heart.

In remembering Susan, we celebrate a life well-lived, brimming with love, service, and compassion. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit and legacy will live on in our hearts forever.

A visitation will be held for Susan Murphy from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, May 9, 2026, followed by a memorial service at 1 p.m., both at the Hartley-Dunnichay Funeral Home, 209 W. Jackson St., Cicero. Services are under the direction of Hartley-Dunnichay Funeral Homes – Cicero.

Condolences: hartleyfuneralhomes.com