Augusta "Gussie" May Murphy

With hearts filled with love, gratitude, and cherished memories, we celebrate the beautiful life of Augusta "Gussie" May Murphy, who peacefully departed this life on July 20, 2026. 

Augusta May Murphy, affectionately known to family and friends as "Gussie," was born on February 7, 1943, in Tallahatchie County, Mississippi, and was raised in Grenada, Mississippi. She was born to Alex Kelly and Fannie Winters. After the passing of her mother at a young age, Gussie was lovingly raised by her grandmother, "Big Momma" Lottie Williams, whose unconditional love, guidance, and wisdom helped shape the remarkable woman she became. She attended Carrie Dotson High School in Grenada, Mississippi. 

In 1961, Gussie married Ernest Lawrence Murphy Sr. in Winona, Mississippi, where they began building their family together. In 1966, she relocated to the Chicago area to join her beloved older brother, Harold Winters Sr.  

At an early age, Gussie accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior and remained in her faith throughout her life. She was a devoted member of Rock of Ages Baptist Church in Maywood, Illinois. 

Gussie was the proud and devoted mother of five children, whom she loved fiercely and protected with all her heart. She leaves to cherish her memory her loving children: Lomia Chapman (Allen) of Antioch, California; Ernest Lawrence Murphy Jr. (Margaret) of Broadview, Illinois; Terrence Wayne Murphy Sr. (Senita) of Bellwood, Illinois; and Randy Lamont Murphy of Bellwood, Illinois. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Alex Bernard Murphy of Maywood, Illinois. 

She leaves behind a legacy of love through her treasured grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and countless friends whose lives she touched. She adored every one of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and found immeasurable joy in watching her family grow. 

She is lovingly survived by her siblings: Sally Goss of Maywood, Illinois; Elizabeth Kelly of Ohio; Josephine "Josie" Kelly of Ohio; Eloise Kelly of Ohio; Alex Lott of Ohio; John "Bobo" Kelly of Ohio; and Recy Kelly of Ohio. 

She was preceded in death by her siblings: Harold Winters Sr., Albert Winters, Drew Kelly, Juanita Smith, Alvin Kelly, Dora Seeden, and Frank Seeden. 

Throughout her life, Gussie was known for her incredible work ethic. She was employed by Danly Machine Corporation, Coin Mechanism, and several area hotels, where her dedication, and pride in her work earned the respect of coworkers and employers alike. She often reminded those around her, "Do it right the first time. Don't half do it." 

Anyone who knew Gussie knew she took great pride in her home. It was always clean, warm, and welcoming. If you knew her as her children did Saturdays where for early morning cleaning. Her home was a place of comfort, safety, and unconditional love. Family, friends, and anyone in need always found an open door, a warm meal, and a loving heart. If Gussie welcomed you into her home, she welcomed you as family. 

She found great joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved playing softball, playing bingo, watching movies and professional tennis. She enjoyed attending family reunions, gatherings, and cheering on her children's/ grandchildren’s athletic events and special occasions. She was an outstanding cook whose Sunday dinners brought everyone together around the table. Her famous caramel cake became a cherished family tradition and was always one of the most requested desserts at family gatherings. 

Gussie was also a woman of extraordinary strength and perseverance. She courageously survived cancer three times and, after being diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer in 2020, continued to face each day with remarkable faith, resilience, and determination. Her courage inspired everyone who knew her. 

The family would also like to extend special appreciation to her beloved cousin, Freddie Anderson, who faithfully took Gussie to her appointments, spent time talking with her, and offered companionship throughout her journey. His love, kindness, and dedication to her will always be remembered and deeply appreciated by the family. 

Above all else, Gussie's greatest joy was her family. She shared a special bond with her daughter and her four sons. She was fiercely protective, endlessly supportive, and always present whenever her family needed her. Her love, wisdom, generosity, and unwavering devotion will continue to live on in every life she touched. 

Though our hearts grieve her absence, we rejoice in knowing that she has received her eternal reward. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and her love will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. 

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