Obituary of Karen Krajci Murphy

Karen Krajci Murphy passed away peacefully in her home in Carrboro, North Carolina on May 5, 2024.

Karen's zest for life was contagious. Her smile, warmth and kindness left a lasting impression on those that were lucky enough to know her or even spend a few minutes in her company.

Karen was born and raised in the Roseland neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois and was the oldest of four children - two sisters and one brother. She loved playing the piano, ice skating, skiing, and playing sports with the boys, occasionally styling her hair into a beehive for a school dance or two.

Karen left the nest to go to college, earning a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Northern Illinois University, and perfecting a chili recipe in the process. She found her niche in law, earning her JD from DePaul University. While in law school, she helped advance women's rights and end housing-based racial discrimination in Chicago.

Karen's curiosity for new cultures and experiences prompted her travels to many countries across the world. She and her husband Dan eventually settled down in Chapel Hill, NC, designing and building a solar house near UNC-Chapel Hill's campus.

She was a go-getter, who never hesitated to give back, practicing law on behalf of people who could not afford an attorney, and helping to bring health care to underserved communities across the state.

While Karen loved her work, and could often be found surrounded by boxes of legal files, some of her proudest and most fulfilling moments were spent welcoming friends and family into her home.

She loved baking chocolate chip cookies with her three daughters, and hosting potlucks at the gazebo in her neighborhood. She also loved swimming laps at the nearby Tennis Club, and spending time in her garden.

Karen was an inspiration and an incredible woman. She will be forever missed, but continues to live in our memories and in our hearts.

Funeral Services will be held at Holy Sepulchre in Chicago, Illinois May 18, 2024 For more information, please reach out to either the family or Walker's Funeral Home in Hillsborough - 919-732-2121.