Obituary of Jean G. Murphy

Jean G. Murphy, born in Plainfield, New Jersey on August 19, 1925 passed on September 10, 2018. Widow of Eugene T. Murphy, mother of David (deceased) and stepmother of Larry E. Murphy (Kathleen) and Thomas H. Murphy (Ellen), she had two grandchildren (Kevin & Pamela Murphy) and two great grandchildren (Miles and Macie). Mrs. Murphy left Richmond, Virginia and moved to Ft. Lauderdale in 1957. She and Mr. Murphy moved to Melbourne to launch Murphy Olds-Toyota in 1969, now Murphy Cadillac, still family owned. Until hindered by arthritis, Mrs. Murphy created lovely needle point and count cross stitch, and she knitted and crocheted for herself and many others. Her work became valued gifts of knitted argyle vests and socks or cross stitched wedding and birth announcements and bible verses or inspirational quotations, many hang in Melbourne homes today. Mr. Murphy often referred to her as his “domestic engineer” and “professional volunteer.” Seeking to give back to her much-loved adopted hometown, Mrs. Murphy volunteered as a hospital “Pink Lady” for 20 years and in the Hospice office for five more until her health began to interfere with helping others. She and Mr. Murphy shared a love of travel, and were sometimes quite adventurous. During the 1970s and 80s, they traveled extensively together through most of the United States and Canada, and they visited Ireland, England, Belgium, Germany, France, Switzerland, Bermuda, Caribbean Islands, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Japan, Hawaii. In 1982, their most memorable trip was to the Holy Land, where they discovered it to be fully as extraordinary and inspirational as they hoped. Ms. Murphy’s preferred pastime was reading; she was often first in line when a favorite author published a new book. She was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Melbourne and loved her church family, remaining grateful for their fellowship and support as she became increasingly unable to attend service regularly. She came to rely on the radio for her service, and often would say: “Praise God for Radio WCIF.” Jean Murphy was a remarkable person in many ways, and she will be daily missed by those who loved her. Services will be held on Saturday, September 15, 2018 at Ammen Funeral Home, 1001 Hickory St., Melbourne, Florida at 3:00 PM, visitation with family at 2:30PM. In lieu of flowers: Florida Baptist Children’s Homes, PO Box 8190, Lakeland, Fl, 33802 Children@FBCHomes.org. Ammen Family Cremation and Funeral Care, Melbourne 724-2222.