Christine M. "Ference" Murtaugh

Christine M. Murtaugh
October 24, 1958 – August 4, 2025

Christine "Cris" M. Murtaugh, age 66, of Chagrin Falls, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly, yet peacefully in her sleep at home on August 4, 2025. Born on October 24, 1958, in Cleveland, Ohio, Cris lived a life full of warmth, joy, and compassion. She attended Lake Catholic High School, made her closest lifelong friends at Slippery Rock University, and completed her educational journey by earning a Master of Education from Kent State University.

Cris was a devoted wife to Dave Murtaugh and a proud, loving mother to her sons, Danny Murtaugh and Tommy (Megan) Murtaugh. She is also survived by her beloved aunt, Geraldine Rejkowski; her cherished sister, Monica Ference-Florek; nephew, Douglas Florek; niece, Ellen Florek; and the children of her late brother Robert - niece, Kelsey Ference, and nephew, Tyler Ference. She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Dolores Ference.

A lifelong educator, Cris dedicated many years to teaching with passion and purpose, both as a college professor and a preschool teacher. Her love for learning was infectious, inspiring generations of students and colleagues alike.

Beyond the classroom, Cris was an avid reader, often finishing one to two books a week. She especially enjoyed curling up with a good book by the water - whether on the deck of her backyard pool or on the beach, listening to the waves in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

She found great joy in the simple pleasures of life: gathering with loved ones around a campfire, cheering on her sons at countless sporting events, taking her dog Apollo on long walks in the park, and spending time with her precious friends who meant everything to her. An enthusiastic sports fan and a caring friend to many, Cris made everyone around her feel valued and supported. She brought people together and always saw the best in life.

In recent years, she took up pickleball and quickly became a spirited and dedicated player at the Solon Rec Center. She enjoyed staying active and was known for her vibrant energy. Cris also expressed her artistic talents through watercolor painting, often creating beautiful custom cards for her friends and family - each one crafted with a personal and heartfelt touch.

Cris lived fully and loved deeply. Her positive spirit, wit, laughter, and kindness were felt by all who knew her. Her impact on the lives of those around her will remain forever, and her memory will continue to radiate joy, compassion, and love in others.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, August 9, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at Valley Presbyterian Church (17560 Chillicothe Rd, Chagrin Falls, OH 44023), where Cris taught preschool for many years. A memorial service will follow at 4:30 PM.

She will be dearly missed and forever remembered.