OBITUARY
“We asked life of Thee, and thou gavest her a long life, even forever and ever.”
At a ripe old age, esteemed and honored by a large circle of friends, at the state hospital Dayton, O., on the evening of March 21, 1910, the tired heart of Eliza J. Murphy ceased to beat, and her spirit returned to God who gave it. The maiden name of the deceased was Thomas and she was next to the eldest of a family of seven children, only two of whom survive her, a brother, Mr. Frank Thomas, of Lytle, and a sister, Mrs. Rebecca Hoblit, of Waynesville. (Note: Their mother and father were Edward P. and Abigail (Benham) Thomas, whose children were Eliza J., Benjamin (1832-1906) – married Abigail Hatfield, Joseph (1834- ) – married Matilda Charlotte Ramsey, Rebecca M. (1837-1920) – married William Harrison Hoblit, Ruth Elizabeth (1838-1869) – married Stratton Riley Clevenger, Julia Ann, Charles Franklin (ca 1843- ) – married Sarah.)
She was born near Centerville, Montgomery Co., Ohio, November 28, 1829, so had passed the eightieth milestone in her journey of life.
In 1845 she was married to Samuel Murphy and of this union one child was born, Josephine, (Note: Josephine (1847-1869) married James S. McClure in Warren County, 1847. Their son was Walter Mclure (1868- ) who married Mary Scott) who with the father preceded the mother over the great divide.
The latter years of her life, Mrs. Murphy made her home with her grandson, Mr. Walter McClure, of Waynesville, until about a year and a half ago, because of her impaired mind, the result of a fall, it was deemed best to her to the state hospital at Dayton, where she contentedly remained until the end.
A member of the Middle Run Baptist church, (Note: She is buried at Middle Run) her consistent Christian life was always an influence for good. Thus has ended a quiet, unassuming and helpful life. She was among us as one who served and many a home was cheered and gladdened by her presence. An angel of mercy to the sick, her ministrations were sought and given through long years. One of whom it can be said: “She hath done what she could .” May our friend and loved one rest in peace, and light perpetual shine upon her.