Melinda Lee Murphey, 75, of Albany, passed away peacefully at home on the afternoon of May 16, 2026, just four days after her 75th birthday. She transitioned to Heaven where her mother was waiting to finally have a conversation that had waited for 75 years to happen. Melinda was in the company of a loved one and knew right up until her last breath how much she was loved.

Melinda was born on May 12, 1951, in Albany, Indiana, the daughter of Charles Myron Murphey and Golda F. (Reynolds) Murphey.

Due to a severe mental handicap, she was not expected to live past her teen years. By always being cared for at home by a mother who loved, was devoted, and sacrificed for the entire family, Melinda thrived and lived her long life.

Melinda was a happy child who in her youth could walk and loved to be in her swing. With an abundance of stuffed toys to keep her happy which we referred to as her babies, she always seemed content and happy.

She loved going to Little Chapman Lake as a child and young adult where she spent a lot of time in her swing and in the lake, floating in an inner tube, with her mother’s supervision of course. She did not know how to fake a smile, laugh, or giggle. It would warm your heart to see that smile and hear that little giggle.

She was in hospice care with Compassus for just six days, but they were invaluable in their advice given to family; thank you to Jill, Samantha, Dia, and Michelle and case manager of many years, Regina Sellers. She was an amazing advocate for Melinda, and her recommendations and other help was a Godsend. Also, thanks to Melinda’s family doctor, Dr. Kara Wyatt, the absolute best who listened closely to our concerns and as we described her symptoms and whose recommended treatment was always correct.

Survivors of Melinda include a sister, Thelma and a brother, Randy.

So, death be not proud, we have dealt with your pain before. The pain of losing Melinda will subside over time, knowing she is once again reunited with her mother and father is an amazing comfort.

“Goodbye Ninny, I love you, and I will miss you Sissy!”

The family has requested there be a privately held service.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Garden View Funeral Home, 10501 N. State Rd 3, Muncie, IN 47303.

Burial will take place at Gardens of Memory Cemetery, Muncie.