Janice Murphy

Janice "Jan" Crossman Murphy

October 7, 1926 - October 19, 2024

With heavy hearts and cherished memories, family and friends announce the passing of Janice "Jan" Murphy on October 19, 2024, in San Luis Obispo, California. She passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by loved ones, shortly after celebrating her 98th birthday. Jan faced life's challenges with remarkable resilience, having survived cancer for three decades and more recently living with Alzheimer's-Dementia.

Jan was born, Janice Elaine McKenney, in Montreal Canada, October 7, 1926. She spent her formative years in Maine before attending Colby College. It was there that she met Bernard Stevenson "Steve" Crossman, after he returned from the war. They married upon graduation and began their life together. In the early 1950s, the couple moved to California, where Jan worked as an elementary school teacher while Steve was a district attorney in Los Angeles. In 1962, they settled in San Luis Obispo with their two children, Steve and Nancy.

Jan worked alongside Steve in the law office and supported him as he built a successful practice. Tragedy struck in 1968 when Steve passed away unexpectedly at the age of 43. Jan continued to work in his law office alongside his partner, Gerald Weaver. Her resilience and dedication were hallmarks of her character.

Jan found love again and married Nicholas J. Murphy, Sr. (Nick) in 1982. She quickly became very close to his family. Together they shared a passion for camping and ski trips with family and embarked on adventures traveling the world until Nick's passing in 1991.

Jan remained active well into her later years. She worked part-time in another law office until the age of 88-a testament to her unwavering work ethic and vitality. Deeply engaged in her community, she was honored as San Luis Obispo Republican Women Federated Woman of the Year in 2005 for her contributions and commitment. Even as she aged gracefully, Jan continued to travel with friends and generously supported numerous charitable causes close to her heart.

Jan is survived by her son, Steve Crossman (Jennifer); her daughter, Nanci (Crossman) Caldon Edwards (Jim); four grandchildren; as well as her extended stepfamily-the Murphys and Leopolds-including four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Jan will be remembered for her strength, humility, kindness, and enduring spirit that touched all who knew her. In accordance with her wishes, no memorial service will be held. The family kindly requests that donations be made in her honor to a favorite local charity of your choice.

May Jan's memory bring comfort to those who loved her and inspire others to live with grace and generosity as she did throughout her remarkable life.