Paulette J. Murphy

Paulette June Pettit passed away peacefully at her home in Lincoln, Nebraska, on December 21, 2024, at the age of 74, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by love and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Paulette was born on June 13, 1950, in Nevada, Iowa, to Clair D. Pettit and Lavone E. Pettit (née Adams). She spent her childhood and formative years in Lincoln, Nebraska, where she graduated from College View Academy in 1968. Paulette continued her education at Union College, earning an associate degree in Office Services in 1970.

Throughout her career, Paulette excelled in administrative roles and left a lasting impact on the organizations she served. Her professional journey included positions at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in Lincoln, Nebraska; Scottsdale Memorial in Scottsdale, Arizona; and most recently at East Lincoln Internal Medicine in Lincoln. Her dedication and professionalism were evident to all who worked with her.

Paulette’s life was enriched by her many passions and hobbies. An accomplished pianist, she found great joy in sharing music with others and playing for church services. She was also delighted in experimenting with new recipes and baking treats for friends and family. Her vegetable garden was a source of pride and nourishment, and she cherished the simple pleasure of taking daily walks almost every day.

Paulette is survived by her devoted husband, Thomas Murphy; her two children, Katherine (Kate) and Benjamin (Ben) and granddaughter Ava Grace; as well as countless friends whose lives she touched with her warmth and kindness. She was previously married to David S. Ripley from 1973 until 1989.

A celebration of Paulette’s life is being planned for May or June of 2025 in Lincoln. Details will be shared closer to that time so that all who wish to honor her memory may gather together.

Paulette will be remembered for her resilience, generosity of spirit, and the joy she brought to those around her. May her memory be a blessing and inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be dearly missed.

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