Carol Ann Murphy

Carol Ann Murphy, born January 20, 1942, in the heart of Nebraska, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on March 14, 2025, in East Texas, at the age of 83.

Carol’s journey through life was marked by an unwavering faith as a Christian believer in Yahweh. She was a beloved Mother, Sister, Grandmother, Aunt, and friend to all.

As a lady of many interests and talents, she embraced self-sustainability with enthusiasm and was often heard boasting about her $12 electricity bill. She had a passion for rabbits, goats, and her late dogs Shep and Girl. With a love for container gardening and a green thumb, she surrounded herself with giant spider plants, Pothys-ivy, vibrant roses, and abundant tomato plants.

Her favorite flower, the rose, was a testament to her beauty. Due to her adventurous and carefree spirit her mother gave her the nickname, “Ramblin’ Rose”. If you get a chance, listen to the song by Nate King Cole, Rambling Rose. In her younger years she enjoyed traveling the United States and dancing in her costumes she designed.

As an avid deal finder and saver, she frequented garage sales and flea markets, discovering treasures that others had overlooked. It was during these adventures that she cultivated not only a collection of unique items but also fond memories and stories to share with family and friends. Carol highlighted her creative spirit through jewelry making and as a seamstress. She was known for her ability to transform simple materials into beautiful pieces such as driftwood art that reflected the love and care she poured into everything she did. In her down time, you could find her sitting in her chair engulfed in a western romance novel.

When asked what is something that her grandchildren would remember about her, they would say her sugar butter oatmeal, scrambled eggs and that she always brought fruit.

Carol’s signature touch that lingered long after she left a room—her enchanting scent of Tabu perfume.

Family was undoubtedly her greatest blessing.

Carol is survived by her children: Debra Hennis Farmer, Darla Jean Brown, Michael John McIntosh, Robert Edward Taber II and wife Mina Marie Taber.

Grandchildren: Angel and Chris Hodges, Samantha and Chris Copeland, Nathan Hennis and life partner Lindsey, Ryan Messina, D’Anna and Logan Paty, Delayna Brown, Dana and Justin Etheredge, Colter Brown, Dayla and Drew Blount, DaLinda Brown, DaLeesa Brown and fiancé Caz Quain, Brandi McIntosh, Christine McIntosh, Ricky Taber, Reanna and Justin Daniels, Robin Taber, Rachelle Taber and Ryly Taber.

Great-grandchildren: Timothy and Anna W., Veronica and Lance C., Carolyn W., Hallee T., Jullee-Ann F., Madyln M., Emma S., Bryson E., Cameron B., Liam B., Forest Q., Lyla Q., Joshua S., Jesse E., Madison C., Tristen, Hayden, Rayden, Marilyn, Dalton, Aadaline and Xavier.

Great-Great Grandchild, Elliot C.

Nephews, Keith Ladsten and Joshua Berbee.

Very dear to her heart was Tracey McIntosh, Elwyn Womble II, many cousins, friends and loved ones.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur Clyde Murphy and Alice Wilcox Prevost; her sister, Judy Roberta Ericson; son-in-law Timothy Scott Farmer; son-in-law James ‘Jim’ Brown; nephew Steven Ladsten.

An ash scattering ceremony will be held at her favorite scenic area of Queen Wilhelmina State Park in Mena, Arkansas on April 19, 2025, at 12:00pm as well as 1-year anniversary remembrance gathering TBD.

In memory of Carol Ann Murphy, the family requests that donations be made to their local food pantry as she would always make sure our cabinets were full.