Rovena was born Aug. 19, 1935, in Williamsburg, Ky., the daughter of William and Minnie Bell (Hubbard) Rose. She was raised in Williamsburg and attended the Williamsburg schools. On Aug. 16, 1952, Rovena was united in marriage to Melt Junior Murphy and together the couple made their home and raised their family in Rockwood, Mich. Rovena relocated to Escanaba in the late 80s where she has remained since. Rovena was employed at Elmer’s County Market Bakery, and for 17 years, the DeltaMenominee Foster Grandparent Program. She was proud to volunteer, every year, for the Salvation Army and enjoyed bingo, trips to the casino, listening to Elvis, and cheering for the Detroit Lions. She will be deeply missed.

Survivors include her sons, Larry (Sharon) Murphy of Rapid River, Michael Murphy of Escanaba, Greg (Jeanie) Murphy of Brownstown Twp., Mich.; daughters, Sonia (Pete) Warner of Menominee, Sharon Staffeld of Baldwin, Mich., Susie (Rick Hamilton) Murphy of Escanaba; sisters, Alma Foley of Rockwood, Mich., Nancy Oulette of Taylor, Mich., Cora Buttery of Flat Rock; dear friend, Phyllis; special friend, Ron Ketchum.

Also surviving are numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to her parents and husband, Rovena was preceded in death by her sons, David and Gary Murphy; brother, Cecil Rose; sister, Mary Coff; granddaughters, Larissa Ann Murphy and Melissa Carr; grandsons, Bryan Jr. and Graydon.

Family will receive friends on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba. Funeral services will follow at 12 p.m. at the Skradski Family Funeral Home in Escanaba with Pastor Arthur Kievit of Agape Ministries officiating. Luncheon will follow at the Agape Ministries fellowship hall. Rovena will be laid to rest in the Lakeview Cemetery in the spring. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting the Murphy family with arrangements.

Messages of condolence may be offered online at www.skradskifuneralhomes.com.