Gena Murphy, Beloved Switchboard Operator, Passes Away at 76

The Columbia, TN resident was known for her warmth, kindness, and dedication to family and community.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 8:04am

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Gena Murphy, a 76-year-old woman from Columbia, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026. She was remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her commitment to her work as a switchboard operator at AT&T, and her passion for simple joys like reading, coloring, and spending time with her grandchildren.

Why it matters

Gena's life story reflects the importance of cherishing family connections, finding joy in everyday activities, and leaving a lasting positive impact on one's community through small acts of kindness and compassion.

The details

Born in Clarksville, TN in 1949, Gena Murphy dedicated her professional life to working as a switchboard operator at AT&T, where her friendly voice and helpful demeanor comforted countless callers. Outside of work, she was an avid reader of horror books, a fan of scary movies, and enjoyed observing wildlife, coloring, and solving crosswords. Gena's greatest joy, however, came from spending quality time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild.

  • Gena Murphy passed away peacefully on March 23, 2026.
  • She was born on May 22, 1949 in Clarksville, Tennessee.

The players

Gena Murphy

A 76-year-old woman from Columbia, Tennessee who was known for her warmth, kindness, and dedication to her family and community.

Paul Edwards

Gena's late father.

Mary Francis McDaniel

Gena's late mother.

Allen Murphy

Gena's son.

Samantha Murphy Brannen

Gena's daughter.

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The takeaway

Gena Murphy's life was a testament to the power of kindness, family, and finding joy in the simple pleasures of life. Her warmth and compassion touched the lives of all who knew her, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire her loved ones and community.