Wanda Murphy

Wanda Thacker Murphy, of Forest, Virginia passed away on August 31, 2026. She was the loving wife of John I. Murphy, Sr. for 58 years.

Wanda was born in Roanoke, Virginia to Rupert G. Thacker and N. Juanita Jones Thacker. After marrying John in 1968, Wanda moved from Roanoke to various places in Virginia before settling in the Forest, Virginia area. She worked with her husband at Valley Fasteners of Lynchburg for over 30 years.

Wanda touched many lives by supporting people in their time of need, always had a smile or kind word to offer, and had an infectious laugh. Wanda was an active member of Lakewood Baptist Church and served throughout the years in many ways. Her Christian faith and family were very important to her. Wanda and John loved to travel and took several trips on their motorcycles, and touring in their hot rod. She absolutely adored spending time with her precious granddaughters, Jessica and Cassie.

In addition to her husband, John, Wanda is survived by her children: John, Jr and his wife Brenda, and Jay and his wife Amy; granddaughters Jessica and Cassie Murphy; her brothers Kenneth Thacker, Bob Thacker and his wife Sue, Allan Thacker and his wife Kim, sister Jeanie Duncan; in- laws: Louise Carpenter, Dolores McArthur, Betty Overfelt, Nancy Secrist and her husband David, many nieces, nephews, and friends.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or The Salvation Army.

 A visitation will be held Friday September 4, 2026 from 6pm to 8pm in the Commonwealth Room located at Tharp Funeral Home 220 Breezewood Drive in Lynchburg.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg is assisting the family.