Helen Louise Murphey, 93, of Nocona, Texas, passed away on June 6, 2026. Helen was born on January 9, 1933, in Winters, Texas, to Curtis and Ophelia Sledge. 

She lived a long and full life centered on family, hard work, and caring for those around her. On October 9, 1965, she married Billie Raye Murphey. They shared more than five decades together before his passing in February 2017. 

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Curtis and Ophelia Sledge; all six of her siblings; her first husband, Elmer Womack, in 1962; her husband, Billie Raye Murphey; her daughter, Kelley Murphey, and her son, Raymond Murphey. 

She is survived by her children, Greg Womack and partner Pam Beauford of West Columbia, Texas; Kathy Hardin and husband Randy of Gainesville, Texas; Karen Hutchings and husband Donnie of Mullin, Texas; Vicki Jones and husband Gary of Valley 
View, Texas; Alan Murphey and wife Linda of Sanger, Texas; and Christie McGuffin and husband Jim of Gene Autry, Oklahoma. 

She also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish her memory. 

Helen was a homemaker whose greatest joy was caring for her family. She enjoyed painting, gardening, tending to her chickens, playing Bingo, and was never afraid to pick up a power tool when there was work to be done. Known simply as “Mamaw” to her grandchildren, Helen was the matriarch of all matriarchs. She kept a watchful eye on her family and always had advice to share. She was strong-willed, independent, and could be ornery at times, but beneath that tough exterior was a woman who would do absolutely anything for the people she loved. She was also famous for her homemade rolls. Holidays simply were not complete without them, and family members often found themselves racing to claim the last one. Those meals gathered generations around the table and created memories that will be treasured for years to come. The family would also like to recognize Billy Price, who faithfully cared for Billie and Helen for more than sixteen years. Through countless doctor’s appointments, hospital stays, errands, and everyday needs, Billy was a constant source of support, companionship, and care. His devotion allowed them to remain independent and comfortable, and his kindness and dedication will always be remembered with gratitude. Helen’s greatest legacy is the family she built, guided, and loved so fiercely. Her strength, wisdom, and devotion will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who were blessed to know her. 

Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Jerry Woods Funeral Home in Nocona, Texas, beginning at 10:00 a.m., followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. Graveside services will immediately follow in Nocona Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to The Carpenter Shop of Nocona, Texas. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.