In Loving Memory

Photo of Kathy Lynn Murphy

Kathy Lynn Murphy

April 24, 1959 — August 5, 2026

In loving memory of Kathy Lynn Murphy, who passed away peacefully on August 5, 2026, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Kathy was 67 years old. Born on April 24, 1959, in Springfield, Oregon, Kathy was the beloved daughter of Larry Schrenk and Shirley Davis. She grew up on a ranch in Pleasant Hill Oregon. She learned about hard work and discovered her passion for horses. Always full of life and zeal, as a child she exuded the kindness and positivity she would bring to the world throughout her life. After being a stay-at-home Mom for 12 years and home schooling her children for four years, Kathy went back to school. In 1994 she graduated from Central Oregon Community College, where she discovered her calling in nursing. She began her career as a registered nurse, dedicating herself to various fields of medicine, with a special focus on home health and hospice care. Her role as an RN was not just a profession, but a testament to her boundless compassion and generosity. In her spare time, Kathy found time to teach music: Piano, guitar and even voice lessons. As an accomplished pianist herself, she cherished being able to share and pass her gift on to her students. After retiring from full-time nursing in 2021, Kathy continued her generosity of spirit as a handler for her black labrador Reilly who she trained and certified at as a pet therapy dog. Kathy and Reilly spent countless hours visiting hospitals and other care facilities bringing comfort and joy to patients, families and hospital staff. In 1980, Kathy married Lance Haberly, and together they raised three wonderful sons: Joshua, Daniel, and Gabriel. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her own children, as she became a grandmother to three cherished grandchildren: Ezra, Luke, and Elora. Later in life, Kathy found love once more and married David Murphy in 2014, becoming a devoted part of his family. Kathy also has a half-brother: Joe Dewey, three step siblings, two step children and five step grandchildren. Kathy was known for her high energy and unwavering positivity, qualities that inspired those around her. Her spirit was infectious, and she touched the lives of everyone she met with her warmth and kindness. Kathy’s father, Larry Schrenk, her mother, Shirley Dewey, her sister, Kara Litwiller, her three sons, husband David Murphy, and her grandchildren carry forward her legacy of love and compassion. A memorial service for Kathy will be held on August 22, 2026, at 5:00 PM at Cross Road Church, located at 1380 10th St. Family and friends are invited to gather and honor the remarkable life of a woman who gave so much of herself to others. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Peace Harbor Hospital for their exceptional care and kindness during Kathy’s final days. In lieu of flowers, donations in Kathy's memory may be made to organizations supporting cancer research, hospice care or pet therapy, causes close to her heart. Kathy Lynn Murphy’s light will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Her life was a testament to her faith in Jesus Christ and the impact of a generous spirit. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.