Thelma Rhea Clay Murphy (August 4th, 1952 – September 6th, 2023)

Rhea Murphy, age 71 of Tuscaloosa, passed away September 6, 2023 at UAB Medical Center.

Services will be held on Monday, September 11, 2023, at Valley View Baptist Church at 11:00 am with Bro. Billy Joy officiating and Magnolia Chapel South directing. Burial will follow at Greenhill Memorial Gardens in Reform. Visitation will be held at the church one hour prior to the service.

She is preceded in death by her father; James H. Clay, mother; Delma M. Clay, and her brother; Jim Clay.

Survivors include her daughter; Beth Saxton (David), son; JP Murphy (Erin), grandchildren; Katherine and Olivia Murphy, former husband; Wayne Murphy, step-grandson; Bobby Saxton (Rebecca), step-great grandchildren; Alayna, Rhett, Addy Saxton and her dear friends.

Rhea was born and raised in Hampton, VA. She was a graduate of York High School and attended the University of Alabama, where she graduated with a Bachelor's degree in elementary education. She retired from Walker Elementary School in 2015 with a total of 39 years as an educator. She enjoyed her retirement to the fullest and enjoyed spending most of her time as an active member of Valley View Baptist Church. She cherished time with family and friends and will forever be remembered as a dear friend and loving mother.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Valley View Baptist Church in her memory.