Barbara "Barb" Sue Murphy

Barbara “Barb” Sue Murphy, 68, of Indianapolis, Indiana, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on June 4, 2026. Born on July 20, 1957, in Indianapolis, Barb spent her life in central Indiana, deeply rooted in the family, friendships, and community she loved so much. 

After graduating from Hamilton Southeastern High School, Barb built a successful career in bookkeeping and payroll, dedicating 45 years to the teams at Clark Tire in Carmel and Fishers. For a time, she also worked part-time at Horton, Inc. Known for her reliability, kindness, sense of humor, and strong work ethic, Barb was someone people could always count on. It was through work that she met Brian, and what began as a friendship grew into a lasting love. 

Family was the center of Barb’s world. She was a devoted mother who never missed an opportunity to be there for her children, whether sharing everyday moments, offering advice, or lending a helping hand. Her greatest joy, however, was being “Baba” to her grandchildren. She filled their lives with adventures, weekly visits, and unforgettable sleepovers at the beloved “Hotel Baba.” Her love extended throughout her large family, and she remained close with her siblings throughout her life, creating countless memories through holiday celebrations, shopping trips, family meals, and poolside gatherings. She was also a steadfast source of care and comfort to family members during times of illness, always putting others before herself. 

Barb had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome. Her home was a gathering place filled with laughter, good food, and love. Her lasagna, stroganoff, and chicken velvet soup became family favorites, bringing everyone together around the table. She and Brian enjoyed caring for their home and pool, where they hosted countless family get-togethers and the much-anticipated “Floatin’ Fridays.” She loved Jazzercise and treasured the friendships she found there. An avid reader and music lover, Barb always seemed to know the perfect song, quote, or words of encouragement for any occasion.

More than anything, Barb will be remembered for her generous heart, her unwavering loyalty to those she loved, and the joy she brought to everyday life. Her family and friends will forever cherish the warmth, laughter, and love she shared so freely. She leaves behind a family made stronger by her example and countless happy memories that will continue to bring smiles for years to come. 

Barb is survived by her husband, Brian Shaner; her children, Jessica (Michael) Sands, Robert Anderson (Emily Mehlbrech), and Katie Anderson; her grandchildren, Olivia, Connor, Kingsley, Eleanor Rose, and a grandchild on the way; her siblings, Tim (Anitra) Murphy, Laurie Murphy (Bert Nickelsberg), Patricia Howard, Mary (Bob) Louzon, Greg (Amy) Murphy, Kevin Murphy (Kathy Keene), Therese (Steve) Sweitzer, Dennis (Lynn) Murphy, and John Murphy; 18 nieces and nephews; and 21 great-nieces and great-nephews. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edmond H. Murphy and Vilma “Jay” Murphy; her brother, Terrance Murphy; her sister, Maureen Gross; her brother-in-law, Garry Howard; and her pets, Tracy, Dublin, and Susie.

Services

Visitation will be held at Randall & Roberts Fishers Mortuary, 12010 Allisonville Road, Fishers, Indiana 46038, on Wednesday, June 10 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Funeral services will be on Thursday, June 11 at 11:00 AM at the funeral home.

Burial will follow at Oaklawn Memorial Gardens, 9700 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis, Indiana 46250.

Memorial contributions may be made to Humane Society for Hamilton County, 10501 Hague Road, Fishers, IN 46038, (www.hamiltonhumane.com).

Condolences: www.randallroberts.com