Margaret Cecile Murphy Starks of Cincinnati passed away on November 28th, 2021, peacefully in St Petersburg, FL at age 69 following a series of illnesses. Born in Indianapolis, IN she resided in Cincinnati for over 30 years. A self-proclaimed “homebody,” Margaret enjoyed baking, sewing, knitting, playing the piano, and collecting pottery and china.
An accomplished pianist and vocalist, she received a scholarship to study music at Brevard College which she ultimately gave up to work in Washington DC as a legal secretary and assist her husband with his education. She never lost her desire to learn and had a keen intellect and love of reading, which she passed to her children.
She was strong in her faith and dedicated much of her adult life to the study of theology, completing undergraduate and advanced degrees at Xavier University and the Athenaeum of Ohio. Notably, she went back to school as an adult student and was welcomed into Alpha Sigma Nu for her academic achievements.
Margaret was curious, resilient, and the rare person who could make you laugh through tears. An incredibly kind and thoughtful woman, she was not above dancing around singing the Yogi Bear theme song in triumph over her children’s defeat in a game of driveway basketball or Hungry, Hungry, Hippos (a remorseless cheater). Her soft sweet voice, rueful little chuckle, and quick but quiet wit will be greatly missed.
Margaret is preceded in death by her parents Arthur and Edna (Trent) Murphy and survived by her three children: Amy Maltbie (Reed), Jacob Starks, Molly Longmire; and eight grandchildren: Julia, Cooper, Cameron, Lorelei, Savannah, Hazel, Ivan, and Lillian.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers donations be made to Girls, Inc. of Pinellas.
My deepest condolences to Molly and family on the death of your sweet Margaret. I felt like I knew her through Molly’s social media posts. It sounds as though there were many precious memories and I pray they bring you comfort.
Molly and family. I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. This is a beautiful tribute to her life. Molly, you have so many of these same attributes. Prayers for your family.
Molly, I am very sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences. You and your family are in my thoughts.
Molly, you are a beautiful person and I’m sure those attributes were passed to you from your mother. I’m sadden to hear of your loss, but am positive she’s in a much better place. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers!
Molly, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I am truly sorry for your loss.
Molly, I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. I know you will carry the many loving memories of her in your heart and soul forever. Please know I am thinking about you and praying for your comfort and peace.
Molly so sorry to hear about your mothers passing away I’m sure she was the reason you are the person you are today take solace and knowing she’s in a better place and time heals all thingsYour friend from rotary I Tony Webster
Molly, sending love and prayers to you and your family. Your mother was a beautiful lady who was, I am sure, very proud of you and your siblings.