Sandra K. Murphy

Sandra Elaine Keen Murphy passed away peacefully on September 13, 2026, with her daughter by her side. Born on February 11, 1944, in Stamford, Connecticut, Sandra was the daughter of Mildred Artis Keen and Austin Keen. She was raised in Norwalk by her mother and beloved stepfather, John Artis. A proud longtime Norwalk resident, Sandra built a life defined by faith, family, service, and an unwavering love for people.

Sandra was a true extrovert. A warm, outgoing, and generous woman, she was known for her humor, strength, outspoken spirit, and remarkable ability to make people feel welcomed, valued, and loved. She was generous not only with what she had, but with her time, her resources, and her heart. If Sandra saw someone she knew while driving around town, it was not unusual for her to tell her daughter, “Get in the back seat,” so she could offer that person a ride.

Her commitment to helping others was also reflected in her professional life. Sandra worked as an employment counselor with Bailey Employment Agency, where she was recognized for her work, and later served as a program manager at the Norwalk Drop-In Center. She ended her career as a case manager with Norwalk Economic Opportunity Now (NEON). Of all her accomplishments, however, she was especially proud of her family and her work at the Drop-In Center.

Above all, Sandra was a woman of faith. A born-again believer, her relationship with Jesus Christ was the foundation of her life. She did not simply speak about her faith; she lived it. She encouraged others, gave generously, and made herself available whenever someone was in need.

As a mother, Sandra was loving, supportive, and — when necessary — crazy strict. She taught her daughter, Tarsha, self-respect, the importance of a good education, and faith in God.

Sandra will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Tarsha Murphy Galloway; her son-in-law, Sam Galloway Sr.; her grandchildren, Sam Galloway Jr. (Tiana), John Galloway (Victoria), and Michael Galloway; her great-grandchildren, Bailey Galloway and Casen Galloway; her sister-in-love, Betty Galloway; her former husband, J. Owen Murphy and their Florida family; her sister, Beverly Stewart (Robert); her devoted nephew Kenny Stewart (Janet), and their family; her niece, Brenda Stewart; her nephew, Vincent Stewart; her cousins, William “Sim-El” Muldro, Jimmy Hendricks, and their families; her goddaughter and namesake, Sandra Clemons and her family; her godson, Michael Scott; her beloved friend, Christina Lieberum (Anthony); and a host of extended family and dear friends.

A celebration of Sandra's life will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at Baker-Isaac Funeral Services in Norwalk, CT. Family and friends are invited to a meet-and-greet at 9:30 a.m., followed by the service at 10:00 a.m. The burial will immediately follow at Riverside Cemetery.

Sandra lived her life with an open heart. Her earthly journey is complete, but the love she shared will continue through all who were blessed to know her.
Rest well, Mom. Your work here is done.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude and appreciation for all the prayers, words of encouragement, and acts of kindness offered during this time of bereavement. Special thanks to the caregivers and staff of Yale New Haven Health, Complete Care at Meriden, and Beacon Hospice Care for the compassion, care, and support they provided to Sandra and our family. — The Galloway Family