MURFREESBORO, Tenn. (WGNS) - Elizabeth “Liz” McPhee, the longtime First Lady of Middle Tennessee State University and wife of President Sidney A. McPhee, passed away Thursday, the university announced.
Stephen B. Smith, chairman of the MTSU Board of Trustees, shared the news with the campus community, calling her loss “a great sorrow” for the university and the many people whose lives she touched.
“Mrs. McPhee was beloved by our University community,” Smith said in a written statement. “Her devotion to MTSU over the last quarter-century, combined with her career as an educator and her tremendous impact as a volunteer for numerous charitable causes, enhanced the lives of thousands in our city, state, and beyond.”
Liz McPhee served alongside President McPhee throughout his 24 years leading the university, becoming a familiar and influential presence at campus events, community initiatives, and charitable efforts across Rutherford County and Tennessee. Her work as an educator and her commitment to service made her a respected figure well beyond the university grounds.
“Over the next several days, we at MTSU will share many thoughts, reflections, and expressions of appreciation for Mrs. McPhee’s life and service, as well as information about arrangements once they become available,” Smith said.
Funeral arrangements and details on memorial observances will be released by the university when finalized
