Cornelia B (Butler) Murphy

Cornelia B. Murphy (Nealy), 80, passed away on January 6, 2026, at IU Ball Memorial Hospital in Muncie, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on September 12, 1945, in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, the daughter of Shelly and Rachel (Seuis) Butler.

Following her graduation from high school, she married the love of her life, Michael Murphy, whom she met while he was stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, serving in the Navy. Together they shared sixty years of marriage. Nealy worked as a beautician in the Muncie area, taking time away to raise her children before returning to work, later retiring and helping care for her grandchildren.

Nealy was strongly opinionated, deeply loyal to her people, and known for her selfless heart. She quietly sacrificed her own wants and needs so others could be blessed, always putting her family and loved ones first. She enjoyed reading and was an avid Judge Judy fan. She loved sitting on her front porch watching birds, especially cardinals, tending to her flower gardens, and listening to the peaceful sound of her wind chimes.

She cherished weekly Wednesday thrift-shopping trips with her best friend, Sissy, a tradition she greatly enjoyed. She was also known for her love of Diet Coke, even sneaking one into restaurants that served Pepsi—something her family will always smile about.

Above all, Nealy loved her family. She was a devoted wife and mother and was immensely proud of her grandchildren and their accomplishments.

She is survived by her husband, Michael Murphy; three sons, Chris Murphy (Christina), Joe Murphy (Jessica), and Aaron Murphy (Erin); seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild, with another on the way.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, F.C. Butler; sisters Olivia Musco (Ralph), Fay Acree, and Violet Keeter (Lonnie Joe); three nieces; and two nephews.

Services will be held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. at Parson Mortuary in Muncie. Friends may call on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. and an hour before the service on Wednesday.

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