Shirley Lynn-Brunner Murphy

Shirley Lynn Murphy, age 68, of Hamilton, passed away peacefully at Bitterroot Health on Friday, December 5, 2025, with loved ones close by. 

Shirley was born on September 19, 1957, at the family home in Bainville, Montana. As a child, the Brunner family moved to Missoula, a place Shirley always considered home. After retirement, she and her husband settled in Hamilton, where she enjoyed the quieter pace of life, and a home set in the woods surrounded by wildlife.

Shirley married the love of her life, Dennis Murphy, on October 30, 1982. Dennis passed away one month before what would have been their 43rd wedding anniversary—a loss Shirley carried with quiet strength and enduring love.

Shirley is survived by her son, Stephen; her grandchildren, Madi and Austin; her brother, Don; sisters, Lucy and Vicky; her longtime and cherished friend, Christine McConauhey; her beloved furbaby, Daisy; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dennis; her parents, Elroy and Marjorie; her brothers, Lyle, Danny, and Roy; and companions Patches and Skeeter.

A celebration of Shirley’s life will be held at a later date. For those that are wondering, Daisy has been welcomed to Stephen and Austin's home where she has plenty of room to run and large siblings for her to play with.