(Ellis County, OK) Dana Murphy, candidate for Corporation Commission, will take a short detour along the campaign trail to spend time with families honoring their loved ones buried at Mount Olive Cemetery in Ellis County over Memorial Day.  

“It has been a tradition for as long as I can remember for families, including mine, to come from all across America for a pot luck dinner and program to celebrate and remember deceased loved ones on the Sunday before Memorial Day,” said Murphy.

Murphy chairs the board that coordinates Mount Olive Memorial Day ceremonies, where four generations of her family are buried.

Murphy took her father's place on board of trustees after he passed away in 2001, and was voted as chairman a few years ago. 

“Even as a little girl attending with my grandparents, I was keenly aware of the prayerful remembrance of those who came from far and wide to such a remote little cemetery.   Flags are placed on the graves of those who previously served in the military. It continues to be a reunion of sorts with music, great food and wonderful conversation in an old 2 room church.  It is a time to slow down and reflect on being an American and on the heritage that is important to families.” 

Attendance usually varies from 40-75 people, and many generations within different families are always represented at the annual event.

Born in Woodward, OK, Murphy currently lives Edmond, OK where she owns and operates her oil and gas legal practice.