Joan Murray

Joan Owens Murray, age 87, passed away suddenly on August 26, 2025, in Sherwood Forest, Maryland. Born on August 28, 1937 in Wilmington, Delaware, to Alice Lowe Owens and George Norton Owens, Joan lived a life marked by compassion, service, and deep devotion to her family and community. She attended the University of Delaware where she was a cheerleader who graduated with a degree in Education. She spent her teaching career nurturing young minds. Joan shared a loving marriage of 62 years with her husband, Robert Murray. She was a devoted mother to Alison Murray and Bobby Murray and welcomed her son-in-law Charles Hohman into the family with open arms. Her legacy continues through her cherished grandchildren: Jason Murray, his wife Ashley Murray, Brittney Murray, her husband Brendan Huebner, Coty Murray, Casey Murray, and Connor Murray. Joan's life was one of active engagement and heartfelt generosity. For over 30 years, she was an integral part of Rockville United Methodist Church, where she participated in Bible study groups and supported numerous church initiatives. Her faith guided her actions and inspired her tireless volunteer work. She gave freely of her time to organizations such as Meals on Wheels, The Aged Woman's Home of Georgetown, and several religious charities. After summering for many years in the Sherwood Forest, Maryland community, she and Bob moved there full time where she was a member of the Endowment Board. She played tennis, golfed and spent wonderful mornings having coffee on the store porch. This was her special place with close friends. She and Bob also spent many winters enjoying the warmth of Sarasota, Florida, where they made many friends in the Meadows community. Her vibrant spirit shone through in everything she did. Whether playing Bridge, solving crossword puzzles, or participating in Bible club, book club discussions and garden club gatherings, Joan brought enthusiasm and kindness to every interaction. She had an infectious energy that made others feel welcome and valued. Joan leaves behind a wide circle of family members and friends who will remember her as full of life-someone who touched countless lives through both small gestures and grand commitments. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her and continue to inspire acts of love and service in the world she leaves behind. A Celebration of Joan's life will be held at 11:00am on November 1, 2025, at Calvary United Methodist Church - 301 Rowe Blvd. Annapolis, MD, followed by a reception at Stewart Hall, Sherwood Forest, MD. (Directions will be provided at the church.)