Bea Irene Murphy

Bea Irene Murphy (formerly Beatrice), also known as “Queen Bea” by her beloved family, passed away at the age of 75, on Christmas morning, December 25, 2020, after battling Alzheimer’s Disease for several years.

Bea was born in Duluth, MN in 1945 to parents Leo and Violet Murphy,. She was the second born of five children; brothers Mike and John Murphy, who both preceded her in death, and  survived by sisters Barbara Erikson and Beverly Beaudette. Bea and her older brother Mike always had a close relationship, perhaps bonded as the two red-headed children in the family, and they are likely enjoying some laughs together on the other side.

Bea graduated in 1962 from Stanbrook Hall High School in Duluth, MN and two years later married John Stanley Pearson. In 1965 they gave birth to their first child, daughter Barbara Jill, followed by a son in 1968, Ronald John.  In 1971 they gave birth to their youngest, Wendy Lynn.  Bea’s 3 children were her everything. She loved fiercely as a mother and raising her children is what gave her purpose in life. Bea and  John divorced in 1979, after moving their family to Federal Way, WA to start anew. Being a single mom was not always easy, but Bea’s strength, independence, and selflessness drove her to work hard for her family, Her children were what put a beautiful smile on her face. Always.

Bea’s family blessings grew in 1988 with the birth of her first grandchild, Stuart Weller. Bea felt an instant bond with Stuart that continued through his childhood into adulthood. Sadly, in May of 2020, Stuart passed away at the age of 31. The family takes comfort in knowing Stuart and Bea, his extraordinary Gramma, are together again.

Bea is survived by her 3 beloved children and their spouses; Barb Patterson (Bruce), of Bonney Lake, WA, Ron Pearson (Brandi), of Puyallup, WA, and Wendy Andersen (Blake), of Snoqualmie, WA.  In addition to her grandson Stuart, Bea was blessed with 6 additional grandchildren and 1 great grandchild; Emily Cockle (mother of great grandson Hudson Cockle), Amanda Weller, Jake Weller, Bella Pearson, Layla Pearson, and Vivian Andersen. Bea had a special relationship with each of her grandchildren, and they all loved their “Gram” fiercely.

Bea’s purpose and happiness was derived from being a mom, a gramma, and the matriarch of her family. She loved coffee, chocolate, mexican food, veggie pizza, Scrabble, Thanksgiving, and the ocean.  Bea was strong, independent, selfless, and passionate in the way she loved and raised her family. In the end, Alzheimer’s ravaged her brain and body, but could not ravage her heart, as she never forgot who her children were. Bea continued to smile and shine bright when her family was with her, and they were fortunate to be with her in her final days.

Bea was a true gift. A warrior for her family. Her love will live on in all of our hearts until together again. Rest in peace now and fly free, we love you Mom!

Due to Covid restrictions, Bea will be honored in a private service with her family. She will rest beside her beloved grandson, Stuart, at Woodbine Cemetery in Puyallup, WA.