Catherine Carter Murphy was born on March 11, 1955, in Duncan, Oklahoma to JD and Sally (Carroll) Carter. She and her older brother Randy were raised in Duncan, and she graduated from Duncan High School in 1973. She loved to cheer on the Duncan Demons with dear friends from the Lucky Circle Club. Cathy attended the University of Oklahoma, where she majored in Elementary Education. She was a member of the Delta Delta Delta Sorority. She made lifelong friends within Tri Delt and cherished those friendships deeply. Upon graduation from OU, she began a 33-year career teaching first grade at Eisenhower Elementary School. She had a positive impact on countless children and families; years later she was still greeted around town by former students who loved Mrs. Murphy. The teachers and staff at Eisenhower were one of Cathy’s greatest joys. From cheerful birthday celebrations, lake trips, and raising kids together, her "circle of friends" at IKE meant the world to her. She married Brendan Murphy on October 1, 1983. They shared 44 wonderful years together golfing, cheering on the OU Sooners, traveling, and so much more. Raising her two daughters Laurel Elizabeth and Hailey Anne was a source of immense happiness for her. Cathy had a creative spirit and loved all arts and crafts. She passed that love down to her daughters, teaching them to needlepoint and sew. Cathy enjoyed playing golf and tennis, gardening and spending time with the many dogs she had over the years. In her later years, she could often be found snuggled on the couch with her grandkids and their favorite books. 

Cathy is preceded in death by her beloved parents, JD and Sally Carter, along with other family members. She is survived by her loving husband Brendan, two daughters and their families; Laurel (Scott, Rosie and John) Hoffmann of Portland, OR and Hailey (Chris, Sally and Lainey) Johnston of Dallas, TX; her brother Randy Carter and sister-in-law Elise Carter; along with many cousins, nieces and nephews, and family members and friends who loved her deeply. 

Our family would like to thank the care and compassion of friends and family members. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you simply read your favorite children’s book or make a donation to Art with a Heart OKC in Cathy’s honor. 

Please join us for a celebration of life honoring Cathy Murphy on Wednesday, October 28th at 10 AM at First Presbyterian Church in Norman, OK.