Funeral services for Mrs. Minnie Marie "Rhea" Murphy Adams, age 98, of Farmerville, LA will be at 10 a.m., Saturday, February 22, at Mt. Tabor Church, Farmerville, under the direction of Farrar Funeral Home. Justice Jay McCallum will conduct the service. Visitation will be at 9 a.m. until start of service. Pall bearers will be Richard Wade, Robert Wade, Steven Frasier, Russ Deloach, Steve Adams, and Clay Murphy. Honorary pall bearer will be Mike Murphy.

Marie was preceded in death by her parents, Alva J. Murphy and Nellie Hammonds Murphy of Calion, AR; brother William C. "Bill" Murphy, sister-in-law Maxine Long Murphy, nephew Gary Thomas Murphy; and her husband of over 80 years, Russell G. Adams.

She is survived by her daughters: Judith Ann Adams Wade (Barry), Barbara Louise Adams Welch, and Danna Elaine Adams (Kenny Deloach); grandchildren: Richard Barry Wade, Jr. (Kristen), Robert William Wade (Alison), Katherine 'Kathy" Cole Frasier (Steven), Lauren Claire Deloach White (Jarred), and Russell "Russ" Kenneth Deloach (Zoe); great grandchildren: Brindley Wade, Lindsey Wade, Katelyn Wade, Rylan Wade, Cole Frasier (AbbyGayle), and Ripley White; great great grandchildren: Colstyn Frasier and Frankie Kathryn Frasier; nephew Clay Murphy, niece Anne Murphy, and brother-in-law Dempsey Adams (Nita); and many other extended family and friends.

When the most popular girl at Norphlet High School eloped with the handsome basketball player on Prom night, no one could imagine their long and happy 80 years of marriage. Their parents were quite surprised, with Rhea's father only saying to Russell, "She can't cook!", after which Russell said that's okay, to which Alva replied, "Not if you're hungry, son!"

But somehow, during the years, Rhea learned to cook and cook she did! Some people recognized her as one of the best cooks in Farmerville. She was known for coconut pies, hot water cornbread, cakes, and her personal favorite, chop suey. One of her greatest joys was cooking special birthday treats, Christmas plates of goodies, and delicious dishes for the Wednesday night potluck at Mt. Tabor.

Another very important part of Marie's life was Tupperware! She was a dealer and ultimately a manager for several years, always winning the grand prizes for exceeding her sales goals. She made lifelong friends in Tupperware, including the many dealers who worked for her and the management in Shreveport, who saw her as an avid, dedicated Tupperware promoter.

Another highlight of Marie's life was her dedication to Mt. Tabor, where she played the piano for over 30 years. She and Russell began the monthly singing program, which they called Jubilee. It was a great mission opportunity for Mt. Tabor while providing outstanding  entertainment and uplifting spiritual music to the many attendees.

The family would like to extend a very special thanks to Elara Caring and Taylor and David, who provided much assistance, love, and care. Also many, many thanks to her sitters who made it possible for her to stay at home in her final months. We will always remember Connie, D'Wanda, Tiffany, Doris, Crecia, Rhonda, and many others who helped along the way. We would be remiss not to mention Marie's dear friend and neighbor, Mike Murphy, who so selflessly gave of his time and love to care for her in his own special way. He provided her with so much happiness and joy, and his thoughtfulness knew no bounds.

Her loving spirit and generous heart touched everyone who knew her, and her legacy will continue to inspire those who were blessed to share in her life's journey.  Her impact on her community will be fondly remembered and deeply missed.