Hazel W. Murphree, 95, of Valley Falls, KS, passed away Tuesday, October 30, 2024 at the Heritage Gardens Healthcare and Rehabilitation in Oskaloosa, KS. She was born January 9, 1929 at Red Boiling Springs, TN to Estes and Berth (Wood) West. Hazel graduated from Red Boiling Springs High School in 1947. She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Health Care Administration from Ottawa University in 1979.

On January 15, 1954, Hazel married Arthur L. Murphree. They shared over 24 years of marriage before Arthur passed away in 1978.

Hazel worked several years in the healthcare industry and worked the last 15 years at the Lawrence Memorial Hospital.

She was a member of the First Christian Church in Valley Falls.

Hazel is preceded in death by her husband Arthur; 3 brothers, Fred, Frank and Jesse West; and 2 sisters, Pauline Bennett and Bonnie West.

Survivors include her 3 children, Karen Murphree of Montana, Donna Murphy of Topeka and David Murphree (Barb) of Valley Falls, KS; and 3 grandchildren, Miles Murphree, Cole Murphree and Bonnie Murphy

Private Family Graveside will be held at the Valley Falls Cemetery. Mercer Funeral Home in Valley Falls is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be given to Jefferson County Humane Society c/o Mercer Funeral Home, P.O. Box 270, Holton, KS 66436.