Janet Murphy Obituary
October 16, 1942 - August 4, 2025
Janet W. Murphy, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home in Spring Branch, Texas on Monday, August 4th, 2025, at the age of 82.
Born on October 16, 1942, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Janet moved with her family to Houston, Texas in 1961. She dedicated the early years of her adult life to raising her sons as a stay-at-home mother before pursuing a long and impactful career in education. For over 45 years, Janet served as a special education teacher in the Alief Independent School District, where she worked at Chancellor Elementary, Killough Middle School, and O'Donnell Middle School. Her devotion to her students and her work made a lasting impression on countless families and colleagues over the decades.
Janet was also a passionate advocate and coach for Texas Special Olympics, where she dedicated countless hours supporting and uplifting young athletes. She was deeply admired and cherished by her students, their parents, fellow teachers, and staff members for her unwavering compassion, energy, and her commitment.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas W. Wilson and Trina T. Wilson. She is survived by her sons, Brian (daughter-in law Danielle) and David (daughter-in-law Ambyr); grandchildren Ed (and wife Katie), Corbin, Kendall (and husband Tyler), Conner, and Tylee; and great-grandchildren Hayden, Murphy, James, and Grayson. She also leaves behind her brother John, sister-in-law Jenni, and nephew Chris; her sister Ann and brother-in-law Stuart.
Janet's legacy of friendship also lives on in her best friend of 45 years, Sharon.
Janet's life was one of deep love, tireless service, and quiet strength. She will be remembered for her humor, her pranks, and she will be missed dearly and remembered always.
True to her humble and independent spirit, Janet requested no formal service. Instead, she asked that those who knew her take time to remember her in their own way. In lieu of flowers, she would have appreciated support for the Texas Special Olympics, a cause that was close to her heart. (Special Olympics Texas, 4732 Whirlwind Dr., San Antonio, TX, 78217)"
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2 Entries
Connie & Brian Niekamp
October 4, 2025
Janet was a great special education teacher. Very kind woman.
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Mary Pat Rafferty
August 29, 2025
I worked with Janet at Chancellor Elementary back in the mid-80's. We got to know each other when she asked me to photograph students at the annual Special Olympics track and field competitions. Her dedication to her "kids" was wonderful to watch, using her humor and kindness every step of the way. You could count on Janet under any circumstance, including faculty meetings, happy hours, and in-services, to make you laugh. Her giggling smile lit up her twinkly eyes. She and Wilma were quite a pair to have on staff, and we'll all remember the fun those two had together bringing joy to us all. I was lucky to be part of a Trivial Pursuit group who met monthly for rousing games. Janet and Sharon always hosted the Christmas party, and it was such a treat to see all the rooms decorated with piles of goodies and treats. Wherever Janet went, she left people happy and glad to have spent time laughing with her. She will be so missed by her beloved family and I send my deepest condolences for the loss of this wonderful woman.
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