Beverly Murphy's Obituary
Beverly Tresea Murphy, 76, of Chattanooga, passed away Wednesday, January 14, 2026, in a local hospital.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” – Psalm 46:1
With hearts full of love and faith, the family of Beverly Tresea Murphy celebrates her life and her homegoing into the presence of the Lord. Beverly was a lifelong resident of the Bakewell community, where she touched many lives through her kindness, her compassion, and her love.
As we reflect on her journey, we cling to the hope found in Scripture: “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8). We believe that Beverly now rests safely in that blessed presence.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Rankin Penn and Hazel Hickman Penn; her children, Susan Sheats and Greg Sheats; her brother, David Penn; and her sister, Dianne Penn. Though their earthly voices are silent, we rejoice in our belief that she is reunited with them in a place where God “will wipe every tear from their eyes.” (Revelation 21:4).
Beverly leaves behind a loving family who will carry her legacy forward: her children, Carmen Erwin and Brent Sheats; her grandchildren, Kierra Erwin, Piper Erwin, Damian Erwin, Gavin Erwin, and Ariyanah Sheats; her great‑grandchildren, Noelani Ballew, Donovan Moore, and Atlas Moore; her brother, Terry Penn; other relatives and friends.
To her family, may you be encouraged by God’s promise in Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Beverly’s love lives on through each of you—through your kindness, your strength, and the memories that will forever warm your hearts.
Her life was a testimony of perseverance, generosity, and determination. She demonstrated the love described in I Corinthians 13—patient, kind, steadfast—and she shared that love with everyone around her. Although she has stepped into eternity, her influence remains, guiding each generation she leaves behind.
As you walk through this season of sorrow, may you find comfort in believing that Beverly has finished her race, lived a humble and modest life, and she now rests in the everlasting arms of her Savior. And may the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7).
Beverly will lie-in-state on Sunday, January 25, 2026, from 1-5 p.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will be Monday, January 26, 2026, at 10 a.m. in the Chapel with Pastor Anthony Sheats as the Eulogist. Burial in Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Bakewell, Tennessee.
What’s your fondest memory of Beverly?
What’s a lesson you learned from Beverly?
Share a story where Beverly's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Beverly you’ll never forget.
How did Beverly make you smile?