Dorothy Jane Murphey (MA ’89)

Dorothy Murphey

1932-2022

Dorothy Murphey died peacefully in the presence of loving family at her home in Houston on April 2nd. She was born to David J. and Ethel Kreager in 1932. She was married to Carey Murphey for 60 years. She is predeceased by Carey, her brother Dave, and a nephew. She is survived by her three children: Richard (Amy); Don (Linda); and, Susan; and four grandchildren: Colleen, Matthew, Stephen and Michael. Dorothy was active in multiple organizations, including Texas Exes and Alpha Chi, her local Republican precinct, Junior League, Meyerland Club, Garden Club, Friends of Archeology and Presbyterian Women. She was treasurer for a local investment club, with her mother Ethel. The Murpheys lived in the Hague, Netherlands for two years in the early seventies, where Dorothy initiated family cultural trips across Europe. Once back in Houston, she began teaching, first at Bellaire High School, then Strake Jesuit, where she chaired the English department and ran the school paper, and then at University of Houston, where she got a master’s degree. She was very active, in turn, at St. Luke’s Presbyterian, First Presbyterian Houston, and St. Philip Presbyterian, and engaged the family in many church activities. After retiring, she volunteered for 30 years as a docent at the Museum of Fine Arts. There, as everywhere, she set a high bar by her diligent study before giving tours, and by befriending new docents and staff. She was an active, devoted, excellent mother to her family and a devoted aunt to her brother’s family. She cooked for and hostessed countless events for others. She traveled widely with Carey and family. She lead an exemplary life of faith, family and friendship. She will be greatly missed. Services will be held at St. Philip Presbyterian on Sat. April 23rd at 11am. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to her beloved Main Street Theatre or Classical Theater Company, or to your favorite arts charity.

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