Dorothy P. Murphy

Dorothy P. Murphy, 95, of Salem, passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026 in Bridgeport.  She was born on August 6, 1931 in Salem, a daughter of the late James Aldrich Lockard and Laura Reeder Lockard.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, Edward Frank Murphy, who passed away in 2014.

She is survived by two children, Laura Capozzi and husband Angelo and Janet Davis and husband Mike; grandchildren, Scott Davis and wife Ashleigh, Amy Henderson and husband Alan, Edward Williams and wife Melinda, Sam Davis and wife Abby, Tim Williams and wife Justine and Shea Davis and wife Alison; great grandchildren, Abigail Davis, Elizabeth Henderson, Riley Davis, Rease Davis, Gwyneth Henderson, Ava Davis, Ashton Davis, Rebekah Henderson, Samantha Henderson, Wesley Williams, Ward Williams, Adaline Williams, Lainey Davis and Lee Williams; siblings, Tom Lockard and wife Kay and Laura Jean Romine and husband Judson; and her pet cat, Punkin, who provided her with faithful companionship; and many nieces and nephews as well as great nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband she was also preceded in death by her siblings, Francis Powell and her husband Alvin, James Lockard and wife Janice, Edward Lockard; and great grandson, Gabriel Henderson

Dorothy was a graduate of Salem High School and also received her Associates Degree in Heritage Arts from Salem College.  She was employed as a secretary for Salem College for more than 25 years as well as working in Washington DC for the FBI.  She was also a faithful member of Salem Baptist Church.

Dorothy was a woman of many talents and creative gifts. A master seamstress, she had a remarkable ability to turn fabric into something beautiful. She made clothing for herself and others, including beautiful wedding dresses, and even lovingly created clothing for the dolls she made out of porcelain. Her creativity and attention to detail could be seen in everything she made.

She enjoyed gardening, woodworking, fishing, and spending time outdoors. She was also a wonderful baker who took pleasure in creating delicious treats for her family. Dorothy was never one to sit idle and always seemed to have a project, craft, or something new to work on. Whether she was sewing, baking, gardening, or creating something with her hands, she brought patience and care to everything she did.

Dorothy was creative, artistic, humble, quiet, proper, and deliberate. She had a gentle and steady presence and a way of doing things that was uniquely her own. She found joy in simple things, especially time spent with her family and the opportunity to use her many talents to make something special.

She will be remembered for her creativity, kindness, strong work ethic, and the many beautiful things she made throughout her life. Most of all, Dorothy will be lovingly remembered by her family and friends, who will treasure the memories of her gentle spirit, her talents, and the love she shared with those around her. Her presence will be deeply missed, but her memory will remain a cherished part of the lives she touched.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Bridgeport Healthcare for the wonderful care, kindness, and compassion shown to Dottie during the last three months.

Donations may be made to the Humane Society of Harrison County in her memory.

Dorothy’s wishes for cremation will be honored.  A private interment will be held at a later date.  Online condolences may be shared at  www.davisfuneralhomesalemwv.com.. Davis Funeral Home & Crematory-Salem is honored to serve the Murphy family.

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