Yolanda Diane Murphy

Yolanda Murphy, born December 21, 1974, in Youngstown, Ohio, to Victoria Murphy and Charles Lawrence, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025. While Youngstown held a special place in her heart, Yolanda ultimately made Columbus, Ohio, her home. Her life was rich with experiences and relationships, leaving a vibrant legacy for those who knew and loved her.

A proud alumna of North Junior High School, where she was a cheerleader. Yolanda also attended East High School, both in Youngstown, Yolanda later became a dedicated STNA (State Tested Nursing Assistant), working for several years at Omni Manor Nursing Home during the 1990s. Beyond her professional life, Yolanda possessed remarkable talents, especially her unique flair for braiding hair. She had a passion for music, enjoyed playing bingo, and was known for her infectious laughter and jovial personality – a true jokester who brightened every room. Her nickname, "Glo Ball," perfectly captured the radiant joy that emanated from her. She was deeply devoted to her family, particularly her beloved grandchildren.

While Yolanda faced many challenges in her later years, struggling with both mental and physical health issues that led her to embrace solitude, her love for her family and friends remained unwavering, even if expressed from a distance.

Yolanda is survived by her cherished children: Keyairrah Murphy, Kentairrah Miller, Kenneth Miller, and Kapone Richardson. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her 11 grandchildren: Ra’Niya Gibson, Jayairrah Carter, Antawan Boone, Kapri Miller, Kymhstrie Miller, Kenya Miller, Kenneth Miller V, Kobe Miller, Kennyla Miller, Kapone Richardson Jr., and Kinzlee Richardson. She also leaves behind her siblings: Judith Murphy, Angelic Murphy, Marcus Baldwin, Anthony White, Claudia Lawrence, Lou Lawrence, Charles Lawrence, and Le’Chelle Irizarry (Arvin); as well as countless nieces, nephews, family members, and friends who will carry her spirit forward.

In her passing, Yolanda joins her parents, grandparents Dorothy L. Murphy, William L. Murphy, Irene Campbell, and Glaudis Lawrence, and other cherished family members including Keisha Murphy-Williams (sister), Carlow Williams Jr. (nephew), Nevaeh Baldwin (niece), Antwan Lawrence Sr. (favorite cousin), and Kenneth Miller III (her love). Her absence will be deeply felt, but the warmth of her memory and the impact she had on so many will continue to shine brightly.