Nidia Christine Borrero (Murphy) was born on February 14, 1938, in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, to the late Petra and Tomas Borrero. At the age of 12, Nidia moved to Washington, D.C., where she began a new chapter in her life. She attended D.C. public schools and worked hard to learn the English language, showing strength and perseverance.

Nidia was one of six children, with four brothers and one sister. She was the last surviving member of her family of six siblings. She carried the memories and love of her family with her throughout her life.

Nidia began her own legacy in Washington, D.C., when she met her husband, David “Dave” Murphy. Together, Dave and Nidia built a family of six children—three boys and three girls. Family was at the center of Nidia’s life, and she dedicated herself to creating a loving home filled with laughter, memories, and, of course, lots of animals.

Nidia was a longtime member of St. Luke’s Catholic Church, where she attended Mass with her family. Her children participated in Bible classes and played sports through the church. She enjoyed sharing those experiences with her family.

Later in life, Nidia began working for the Federal Government, at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, where she retired after 20 years of service.

During retirement, Nidia was blessed to witness and participate in many special moments, especially those involving her children and grandchildren. She loved cooking, watching old Western shows, sitting outside, and spending time with her family. As a mother, she enjoyed taking her children to the drive-in movies, going on picnics, and creating memories together. She also loved going to the beach, especially putting her feet in the water. These simple moments brought her great joy and became cherished memories for her family.

One of Nidia’s proudest moments was watching her children come together to open a family business, Murphy’s Auto Body, which still stands today on Marion Barry Avenue in Washington, D.C. The business represents more than just a place of work—it is a reflection of the family, determination, and legacy that Nidia helped build. Her children took the values they learned from their mother and turned them into something that continues to serve their community.

Nidia is lovingly survived by her five children: Julie Murphy (Kinyatta), Cynthia Lancaster (Charles), Laurie Murphy, Jeffrey Murphy (Antwanette), and Christopher Murphy (Kinah). She also leaves behind her beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a host of other family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Nidia was preceded in death by her parents, Petra and Tomas Borrero; her beloved husband, David Murphy; her son, David Murphy Jr.; and her siblings, Elsie Williams, Alfredo Borrero, Daniel Borrero, Roberto Borrero, and Herman Borrero.

On September 17, 2026, Nidia transitioned peacefully after a long battle with dementia. While her family will deeply miss her presence, they will forever carry the love, lessons, laughter, and memories she gave them.

Nidia will be remembered as a woman who loved her family deeply and enjoyed life to the fullest. Her greatest legacy is the family she built, the love she shared, and the many lives she touched. Her story began in Puerto Rico, continued through Washington, D.C., and lives on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and the family business that still bears the Murphy name.

A celebration of Nidia's life will be held on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Cedar Hill Funeral Home. The family will receive friends from 10:00 am to 11:00 am with services to follow.