Vivian Louise Murphy, 71, of Jefferson City, Missouri passed from this earth to her eternal home on August 24, 2024.

She was born in Sedalia, MO on April 17, 1953. She was the daughter of Forest Dalton and Shirley Harrington who preceded her in death along with a brother, Karl Dalton.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Murphy of the home; a daughter, Sonya Jones (John); a sister, Zetta Dalton (Davy); and a brother, Randall Dalton. As well as a brother in-law, John Murphy (Karon), nephews, Joe (Kerry) and Ben (Amanda) and their children.

She loved to spend time with grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.

She served as Big Sister to Tinozshia Harris from Kindergarten to high school graduation and beyond and had a special friend, Clarah Odneal, whose companionship provided comfort and joy to Vivian.

She was married to Robert Murphy on May 25, 1985. She attended State Fair Community College and graduated from Central Missouri State University in 1978 with a degree in Social Work. She attended the University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri and completed course work for a master's degree in human development and family studies.

Her work life was dedicated to working with children and families, having worked for Juvenile Court, Missouri Children's Trust Fund, and Parent Link, University of Missouri. She retired from the Courts in 2006 where she served as Education Coordinator for the Office of State Courts Administrator. After retirement, she held the position of Executive Director for the Missouri Juvenile Justice Association. She served as President of the National Juvenile Court Services Association from 2005-2007.

She was honored for her service and advocacy by the National Juvenile Detention Association and for her work with Drug Endangered Children. After retirement, she continued advocacy work on behalf of Missouri's Children and Youth.

Vivian was a lifelong learner; she loved to read and spend time with the Story Sisters Book Club. She enjoyed paper crafting with different clubs including Designing Divas and crafting with her friends. Her joy was spending time with loved ones, visiting the Murphy Family Farm, especially over the holidays.

She was a member of First Chirstian Church where she served on the Board of Directors as well as an Elder. She coordinated the East School Partners in the Education Ministry and served at the church food pantry and as a coach for Transformational Housing.

Visitation will be held from 2-3 p.m. Saturday, August 31, 2024, at First Christian Church in Jefferson City followed by a memorial service at 3 p.m. with Rev. Dr. Michael Dunn and Rev. Alexis Engelbrecht officiating. A reception will follow in the church fellowship hall.

Interment will be at Chilhowee Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to First Christian Church Benevolence Fund.

Much appreciation to Central Missouri Home Health and Hospice for the wonderful care received by all staff.

Services entrusted to Trimble Funeral Homes – Jefferson City. trimblefunerals.com