Debra Kay (Landwehr) Murphy, 64, of Sheboygan Falls passed peacefully in her sleep, held by the loving arms of our Lord Jesus on October 27th, 2025 surrounded by her dogs, Haley and Snickers. Finally reunited with her beloved daughter, Jennifer Rowe, her mother Phyllis, and her sisters Lisa Whelton and Bonnie Bohlman. Deb was born in Sheboygan on February 9th, 1961, a daughter of the late Howard and Phyllis (Stentz) Landwehr.
The most important thing was her family. Deb was 14 years old when she gave birth to her cherished daughter Amy Rowe (Scott) and 15 when she had Jennifer Rowe. She had a generous, compassionate soul, and magnetic personality. She lived to make people smile and laugh, and knew deeply the joy of spreading kindness in a dark world.
She always knew what you needed before you did, and always put others’ needs before her own. Even when she had little, she gave generously to everyone she knew.
Growing up on a farm in the country, as the second oldest child, she loved and cared for her six siblings often.
She was very energetic, crafty, having many hobbies, talents, and passions throughout the years. Most recently she loved creating diamond art and donating it to the residents at the local nursing home. Along with her many hobbies, she absolutely adored all animals and loved caring for them.
She was the LOUDEST person in every cheering section, whether you liked it or not. She was there to support you, and everyone knew it! We will never forget her cheering, and running, beside her son-in-law, Scott (Amy), at the dragon boat races as they paddled down the Sheboygan River. It was a sight to see.
She loved racing! She enjoyed watching NASCAR in her free time. Loved Ryan Blaney and especially Kevin Harvick. She also enjoyed watching and cheering for her brother-in-law Bradley (Connie) when he raced in Plymouth. She was an expert on driving stick shift, and could have been a race car driver herself with the lead foot she had. Your brake pedal on the passenger side often didn’t work as you expected it to.
She loved visiting and spending time with family. Anytime she would visit she often came bearing gifts of all sorts. She gave the BEST birthday cards; they were often as loud and colorful as she was.
She made holidays magical with her presence and how she decorated her home. You always loved visiting, and never wanted to leave. Her home was our little slice of heaven.
Deb was Christmas, we wouldn’t have any Christmas spirit without her! The tree was always decked out with beautiful ornaments, beads, and dazzling lights. With a mountain of presents to boot, meticulously wrapped, and neatly placed under the tree. She’s already finished her Christmas shopping for this year, you’re all slacking.
One of her favorite and happiest memories was the day she quit her job to take care of her beloved (and favorite) granddaughter Sage. Often getting into all sorts of mischief and craziness, with secrets she’ll take to the grave. You ALWAYS got spoiled going by grandma’s house. Wanted ice cream for breakfast? Watch cartoons and Tom & Jerry all day? Yes please!
She was such a big kid with a huge heart. Her house was filled with toys, and always had something new for you to be entertained with. When you went to visit Grandma’s house, joy filled your heart.
Deb loved being outside, soaking in the sun. She loved going to her sister Lisa’s house to swim and play with Sage. She had so many fond memories there.
She was an excellent cook, often making enough food – for any occasion that could feed an army. You never went hungry. She enjoyed grilling out and having campfires in the back yard, and lighting up the sky with colorful fireworks. You would laugh your butt off from all the funny stories, and go home with a full belly.
She will be greatly missed by all.
She is survived by Shane Murphy, her daughter Amy Rowe (Scott), granddaughter Sage Brown, step-mother Luella Landwehr, brother Bruce Landwehr, sisters Connie (Bradley) Ruh, Lori Lauersdorf, and many nieces and nephews. And of course, her beloved Rick Springfield. In addition to her parents, Deb was preceded in death by her brother Larry Landwehr, sister Lisa (Landwehr) Whelton, Bonnie Bohlman, and young daughter Jennifer Rowe.
As we walk through this great loss, we take comfort knowing God has a good plan for us, and this too He will work out for good. We are thankful Deb was part of God’s great plan, and have been blessed with her presence.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
A special thanks to our Crossroads family for supporting us through this hard time, and Pastor Zach for helping us.
Burial will be private.
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