Joanne Murphy, age 87 of Defiance, passed away peacefully on Friday, March 6, 2026 at her residence, with her family by her side. She was born in Cherry Creek, New York on September 22, 1938 to the late Loren and Rose (Saxton) Manning. After graduating from high school, Joanne earned her Associate's degree from Rochester Business Institute in Rochester New York. On October 19, 1957 she married James Murphy, who survives. Joanne was a faithful member of St. Mary Catholic Church and the Altar Rosary Society. She worked for several years as a secretary at Defiance Metal Products. Joanne enjoyed her time spent as a volunteer at ProMedica Hospital Auxiliary and was a member of the Current Events Club. She enjoyed watching youth sports, golfing, and traveling. Joanne was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. Joanne will be greatly missed by her loving husband of 68 years, James Murphy of Defiance, her children, Bethany Murphy of North Augusta, SC, J. Jeffrey (Kim Stevens) Murphy of Defiance, and Patrick (Sheila) Murphy of Lima, OH, and her grandchildren, Meghan and Sean Murphy. She was preceded in death by her parents, Loren and Rose Manning.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 10, 2026 from 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm at Schaffer Funeral Home South, Lawson-Roessner Chapel (1753 South Clinton Street) in Defiance. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, March 11th at St. Mary Catholic Church with Fr. David Cirata officiating. Joanne will be laid to rest in Riverside Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank the staff of CHP Defiance Hospice for their outstanding care and compassion to Joanne during her illness. Memorials are suggested to St. Mary Food Pantry or CHP Defiance Area Hospice. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com