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Jean Muirhead Obituary
Knoxville
Jean Denman Muirhead has died at her home in Knoxville, TN, on July 15, 2011. Her cremains will be interred alongside those of her parents, in Charleston, MS, at a private service.
As one of Mississippi's first female senators, (1968-1972) Jean Muirhead authored legislation that first allowed women in her state to serve on state court juries. In 1968, to the consternation of the secretary of the senate, Muirhead appointed the first girl pages to serve at times other than the one special week set aside for them. Girls today are likely unaware that they were once barred from such service. Muirhead was active in women's rights issues throughout most of her professional career.
An attorney, she was appointed administrative law judge (ALJ) by the Social Security Administration in September of 1991, and served as Hearing Office Chief ALJ in Memphis, TN. In 1997 she became ALJ in charge of the Division of Medicare in Falls Church, VA. At her request in July, 2001, she was assigned to the Nashville Office of Hearings and Appeals, where she retired in 2003.
Jean Muirhead is survived by her three children: Michael, Scott and his wife, Shelda Fox Muirhead, and Missy; four step-children: Jon, Jeff, James and Lorna, by her marriage to Charles A. Haycraft, who died in 1991; and three grandchildren. She is remembered by them and by her many friends as a tireless advocate for what is right and just, and as a person bound by love, loyalty and devotion. Judge Muirhead personified the ideals of good citizenship and proved herself over and again to be a valuable asset to her community and her country. She will be missed by many.
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Memories and Condolences
for Jean Muirhead
Donna West
August 5, 2011
Mike, Scott & Missy--
We are so sorry to hear of your mother's death. My mother and I have such fond memories of being neighbors, Gulf Shores and just being friends with her and all of you. Reading about Jean's accomplishments throughout her life reminded us both that it was such an honor to have known her and that one person really can make a difference in so many lives. Jean certainly did.
Donna C. West
Ethel C. West
Ridgeland, Mississippi
Zenda Sellers Heafner
August 3, 2011
Scott, Mike and Missy. I just heard about your mother. I am so sorry for your loss. I know she will be missed terribly. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.
Margaret Brakebusch
July 27, 2011
I am so blessed to have had the opportunity to know Jean. She was an inspiration to everyone who knew her and she was one of the dearest friends that anyone could ever hope to have. She touched so many lives and she will live on in our hearts forever.
Richard Martin
July 27, 2011
Mike,Scott,&Missy,
So sorry to here of the loss of your Mom,Mayshe rest in peace.
Richard Martin
Larry Mason
July 26, 2011
We were greatly saddened to hear this news. Jean was a wonderful person, a fine lawyer, a leader and mentor, especially for women, but an example for all. Our condolences and best wishes to all her family and friends. Larry Mason and Sarah Humphreys.
Joe Royalty
July 25, 2011
Scott and Shelda,
I am truly sorry for your loss. Your mother was really a great lady. Although I haven't seen you in a long time I think of you often.
Tony Phillips
July 25, 2011
SCOTT:
So sorry to hear about your mother. She was a very special person. Shared office space in the Barnett Bldg. and she helped me get started in the practice of law.
Tony Phillips
Carol C. West
July 25, 2011
I am so sorry to hear of the death of Jean Muirhead. She was a strong voice for women's rights in Mississippi. Her work benefited all of us. I tell my students the story of her successful coup that resulted in Mississippi women gaining the right to serve on juries. Her death is a loss for all of us.
Carol C. West
Professor of Law
Mississippi College School of Law
jan and Steve Sowka
July 25, 2011
Shelda- Though we have not had the chance to meet your husband, I am in tears over this wonderful Mom he had and how much she accomplished in her lifetime. We Know her memories will be good ones for all of your family, and will say a prayer for all of you. Jan and Steve Sowka
Rebecca Leahey
July 25, 2011
I had the pleasure of working for Judge Muirhead at SSA ODAR Falls Church VA. She was the most gracious woman I have ever met. I wish her great peace on her current journey and solace to everyone who was touched by her.
Shirley Kelley
July 25, 2011
Scott & Shelda, I've been thinking about you and praying for all of you. I didn't realize you mother was a judge! Amazing life she had! Glad I had the opportunity to meet her.
Love you! Shirley
Ron and Brenda Hinson
July 25, 2011
Scott,our hearts go out to you and your family during this difficult time.
j turner
July 24, 2011
Judge muirhead was always eager to represent someone in need, may she forever rest in peace.
Jim and Diane Sanders
July 24, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
July 24, 2011
To Mike, Scott and Missy: Prayers for you and your family at this time of loss.
Sincerely,
Linda Flowers
July 21, 2011
I met Judge Muirhead in Washington, DC. She did not mention her distinguished past. She was a gentle person of substance and courage. I am proud she chose to be a federal Administrative Law Judge.
Brenda Murray
Chief ALJ
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
Jim Hitchcock
July 21, 2011
I met her and worked with her in Memphis in 1991 - 1992. She was friendly and approachable. I wish I could have known her better.
Rachael Searcy
July 21, 2011
I worked with Jean at the Family Justice Center. She was an inspiring woman and a blessing to all who knew her.
July 20, 2011
Aunt Jean was my Mother's sister. I found her terrifically inspiring . She made me proud to be have been a "Denman". ---one great lady who will be missed by many.
Kay Ann Mitchell Robinson, Highlands Ranch,CO
Bill Taylor
July 20, 2011
I knew Jean when she worked in OHA Headquarters. She was most definitely a leader who made a difference. Most of all, though, I will remember her kindness and her wonderful smile.
July 20, 2011
Judge Muirhead was a caring, insightful and professional woman who was a great friend and role model for me. Her accomplishments were always an amazement to me and just getting what needed done for her. My husband and I loved her greatly and will always remember her kindness and Southern charm. Pat Carey/Darryl Levine
Sherry Smith
July 20, 2011
I am deeply saddened and will miss her. My respect and admiration for her will keep her in my heart.
Joel Krafsur
July 20, 2011
I will be forever indebted to Judge Muirhead. She provided me with the opportunity to work for SSA. She was a very classy lady who inspired many around her, including myself. She will be dearly missed.
Kitty M. Guillory
July 19, 2011
Aunt Jean was one of a kind. Her can-do spirit and generosity are legend. I'm proud to have known her and will miss her greatly.
July 19, 2011
We have lost a wonderful lady, friend and Judge. Jean led the way for many. She was a trailblazer for all, and especially for women.
Chuck and Anne Boyer
Debra & Tom Givens
July 18, 2011
What can we say. To Jean's family, out heartfelt condolences and we certainly feel your loss. God bless you. We both worked with Jean in Memphis, Deb as a para-legal and Tom as an administrative law judge. All we can say, it was a distinct pleasure. What a wonderful lady, a true southern belle.
Ann Cook
July 18, 2011
I had the pleasure and honor of knowing Jean when she was with SSA in Falls Church, Va. Aside from being a lively, interesting and attentive friend, she was a valuable source of legal and practical life advice to many of us. I will always remember her with great fondness both as a fellow judge and as a friend.
Cindy Anderson
July 18, 2011
My heart aches for everyone who was touched by Jean's life. She was a supportive friend first and foremost, and also a mentor. I will never forget her hearty laughter at whatever Life threw at her. May she rest in God's arms.
toby buel sr
July 17, 2011
Judge Muirhead was a towering figure in the federal administrative law judiciary. She touched all who knew her and we were better for it.
Toby Buel, Sr.
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