Maribeth Murphy, 73, of Placida, Florida, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 10, 2026, in Port Charlotte, Florida, with her husband by her side and surrounded by the love of her family.

Maribeth was born on January 24, 1953, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Murlin and Delores M. Townsend. She was the youngest of three daughters, joining her sisters, Trudy and Sally. She graduated from Southport High School and completed some college and was one of the first Indiana Pacerettes, before beginning a life centered on family, service, and community.

On April 20, 1974, she married the love of her life, David Wayne Murphy, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Together they shared 53 years of marriage, building a life filled with devotion, laughter, adventure, and unwavering commitment to one another. Their journey together took them from Indianapolis to Mechanicsburg, Illinois; Chatham, Illinois; Byrnes Mill, Missouri; and ultimately to their retirement home in Placida, Florida.

Maribeth first dedicated herself to raising her family as a stay-at-home mother before embarking on a distinguished career with the United States Internal Revenue Service. As a Tax Fraud Investigator, she earned the respect of colleagues through her integrity, professionalism, and dedication. During her career, she received the Chicago Field Office's Achievement Award and was recognized for 25 years of outstanding service with the Internal Revenue Service.

Throughout her life, Maribeth embraced every opportunity to stay active and involved. In her younger years, she played basketball, ran track, served as a cheerleader, and worked as a lifeguard. As an adult, she continued her love of sports by playing in a soccer league. She also devoted countless hours to coaching her sons' soccer teams, encouraging young athletes with enthusiasm and passion.

While her accomplishments were many, nothing brought Maribeth greater joy than her family. She treasured every opportunity to watch her grandchildren participate in their sporting events and activities, celebrating each milestone with genuine pride. She had a remarkable gift for making others feel remembered and loved, faithfully sending birthday, anniversary, and holiday cards that became cherished traditions for family and friends alike. Her thoughtfulness, kindness, and unwavering love touched countless lives.

Maribeth is survived by her beloved husband of 53 years, David Wayne Murphy; her sister, Sally Donahue; her children, Jeremiah Murphy and Tina Maguire, Brandon Murphy, Zachariah and Kristine Murphy, and Vincent Murphy; and her cherished grandchildren, Katelyn Murphy, London Murphy, Piper Murphy, Jameson Murphy, and Mila Murphy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Murlin and Delores M. Townsend, and her sister, Trudy Donahue.

Maribeth's legacy is one of love, service, generosity, and steadfast devotion to her family. She leaves behind a lifetime of treasured memories that will continue to inspire all who knew and loved her. Though she will be deeply missed, her kindness, strength, and compassionate spirit will live on in the hearts of those whose lives she touched.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 SR-72, Sarasota, Florida 34241. The ceremony will be officiated by Michael Murphy and Jim Murphy. Her sons-Jeremiah, Brandon, Zachariah, and Vincent Murphy-along with brother-in-laws, Dennis Miller and Brad Pryor, will serve as pallbearers. A luncheon will immediately follow the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Maribeth's memory.