Patricia Merritt Murphy

In Loving Memory of Patricia "Pat" Merritt Murphy A Life Lived with Joy, Energy, and Love Patricia "Pat" Merritt Murphy-beloved mother, grandmother, sister, cousin, and friend-passed peacefully on the morning of May 5, 2026. Born October 23, 1937, in Edina, Minnesota, Pat was the cherished eldest daughter of Grace McGarvey Martin and Dr. Arnold Martin. She grew up on Kellogg Ave with her younger sister, Mary Louise Martin (Hennessy), in a lively, close-knit neighborhood and among many McGarvey cousins who helped shape her joyful, adventurous spirit. A proud graduate of Edina High School (Class of 1955) and President of the Pep Club, Pat carried her trademark enthusiasm into college at the University of Minnesota-becoming a lifelong Gopher fan-and later earned multiple post-graduate education degrees from St. Thomas University. She devoted 35 years to teaching in the Edina School District, bringing warmth, laughter, and genuine care to generations of students. Pat had a lifelong love for learning and an appetite for adventure. She spent a memorable year in France teaching on an American Air Force base, attended race car driving school, and even earned her air pilot's license. She also launched her own clothing brand, Marti Merritt, selling her designs in boutiques across the United States-an expression of the creativity and energy she brought to everything she did. Pat's legacy shines brightest through the people she loved. She was a devoted mother to her daughter, Marti Merritt Walsh, whom she shared with her first husband, Douglas (deceased 1983). Together, they shared a joy-filled life of laughter, resilience and treasured memories. Pat later found love with Forrest Holmes (deceased) and then Greg Murphy (deceased). She loved her son-in-law, Kit, and delighted in her grandchildren, Merritt, Jay, and Mallory. Her love also extended to her sister Mary Louise, brother-in-law Jim, nieces and nephews Michelle, Pat, and Cindy, her caregiver Bridget, and the many friends and cousins who were part of her journey. Pat's radiant presence, infectious laughter, and unwavering optimism enriched the lives of all who knew her. She will be deeply missed, and her light will live on in the stories and memories she leaves behind. Please join us in celebrating Pat's remarkable life at Edina Country Club on June 19th, 1:00-3:30 p.m., for a short service followed by an open house. Come ready to share stories and laughter, and to wear colorful attire-just as she would have loved. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages a toast in Pat's honor when you watch a Vikings win, tailgate at a Gopher game, or cheer the Edina fight song.

Patricia Merritt Murphy

October 23, 1937 - May 5, 2026

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