Paula Kay Murphy

Paula Kay (Douglas) Murphy, age 76, passed away January 23, 2024. She was born October 14, 1947, in Keokuk, IA to John and Norma Douglas.
She is survived by her husband of 43 years Donald L. Murphy, son Donald D. (Melanie) Murphy, daughter Norma Murphy, grandson Bryson Murphy, and sister Barbara (Richard) Newman. She leaves behind a host of close friends, loved ones and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents John and Norma Douglas and brother David C. Douglas.
Paula was raised in Carthage IL and moved to Plymouth IL at the age of eight. She graduated from Plymouth high school in 1965 and went on to graduate from Iowa Wesleyan College in Mt. Pleasant IA in 1969, with a major in math and a minor in chemistry. She was a beloved educator and math teacher, who taught in the Chicago Public Schools for 37 years – teaching at Kelly, Crane, Carver and spending many years at Corliss high school. She was a true educator who loved teaching and found joy in helping others. After retiring from CPS, she had a second career as a math consultant where she helped math teachers develop and sharpen their skills.
Paula was an active member of Ravenswood United Church of Christ for many years serving as the assistant VP of Church Council, teaching Sunday School and serving as liturgist throughout her years there. Paula also built strong friendships and served her community for many years as a member of the Glenwood Junior Women's Club, most recently serving as the third District Director and media correspondent and education chairman of the local club.
Paula served as a girl scout leader and was very involved in boy scouts, baseball, softball, band, chorus and a host of school events and activities while raising her children. She was a loyal Cubs fan and avid reader who always had humor on hand. She was a wonderful mother, grandmother, sister, wife, and friend.
Visitation will be held Friday, February 2, 2024, from 4:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Burns Kish Funeral Home at 8415 Calumet Ave, Munster IN 46321. Funeral service will be held Saturday, February 3, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Burns Kish Funeral Home 8415 Calumet Ave, Munster IN 46321. Reception will be held following the service at Glenwoodie Golf Club 19301 S State St, Glenwood IL 60425. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Paula's honor can be made to the Glenwood Junior Women's Club, P.O. Box 33, Glenwood, IL 60425, or the education-based organization of your choice.