Janet Murphy

Janet Carol Murphy, affectionately known as Jan to her family and friends, passed away peacefully due to natural causes on November 13, 2024, at the age of 87.

Born on December 22, 1936, in Grayling, Michigan, Jan was the beloved daughter of Walter and Muriel Johnson. Her final days were spent surrounded by the love and tenderness of her family in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Jan grew up in a lively household with her siblings, where she was nurtured in warmth and camaraderie. Although her sisters Jeanne and Franny Johnson and her brother Wally and sister-in-law Diane Johnson predeceased her, she remained close to her surviving brothers Gunnard (and Anne) Johnson of Lake Odessa, Michigan, and Ray (and Judy) Johnson of St. Augustine, Florida. She was also predeceased by her parents-in-law, Frank and Elizabeth Murphy, and her brother-in-law, Bernard Murphy. Jan is survived by her loving husband, Frank. Jan's legacy thrives through her devoted children: Ann Murphy of Roscommon, Michigan; Pete Murphy, also of Roscommon; Mary Murphy of Grand Rapids; Paul Murphy of Sand Lake; and Tom (and Angela) Murphy of Marne. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Amanda (and Steve) Carlson, T.J. Murphy, Abigail (and Patrick) Curtis, Anthony Murphy, Jensen Murphy, Annalise (and Cozmin) Boboc, and Alaina (and Jacob) Vander Veen. Her joy multiplied with the arrival of her great-grandchildren: Isaac, Levi, Mia, Xander, Leland, Oliver, and Vada. Jan's family circle extended to her sister-in-law, Virginia (and Don) Oleson of Traverse City, Michigan, and many loving nieces and nephews.

Janet's formative years were spent at Roscommon High School, where she laid the foundation for her lifelong passion for learning and caring for others. She continued her education at Central Michigan University, where she studied Education before dedicating her life to nursing by training at Grand Rapids Mercy Nursing. Her career was a reflection of her enduring compassion, as she spent many years as a Pediatric Nurse at St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Rapids, later advancing to become the Director of Nursing at Marywood Aquinas Hall. Jan's interests and activities were as diverse as they were fulfilling. She cherished her time "Up North" in Roscommon, where she would immerse herself in the beauty of nature and the company of loved ones. Her hobbies were numerous and varied, including picnics at Gerrish Park, golfing, reading, and following her favorite sports teams, the Tigers and Lions. Jan was also skilled in Stretch-n-Sew, basket weaving, and country painting, often attending classes to perfect her craft. Her volunteering spirit shone brightly at the Ronald McDonald House, and her knitting talents were joyfully shared with her Knit-Wit friends from Gilda's. A natural socialite, Jan loved playing bridge with her friends at St. Al's, Northview Seniors, and in Roscommon. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, and she was actively involved in St. Jude Parish, where she served as a nurse, helped prepare funeral meals, and was a dedicated member of the Altar Society and Guild. Jan was also an Associate with the Grand Rapids Marywood Dominicans, an affiliation that spoke to her deep-rooted faith and commitment to community service. Janet Carol Murphy lived a life rich in love, service, and friendship. Her nurturing spirit, warmth, and kindness touched the lives of everyone she met. She leaves behind a legacy of love, a tapestry woven through her dedication to her family, her passion for her work, and her service to her community. Jan will be dearly missed and forever cherished in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Jan had a wonderful experience at Beacon Hill at Eastgate with loving care, rehabilitation and new friendships. Our family is so grateful for this experience. A funeral mass will take place Friday, November 22, 2024 at 11:00 am, St. Jude Catholic Church, 1120- 4 Mile Road NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan. An hour of visitation starting at 10:00 am. A luncheon will follow in the Brophy Center. In lieu of flowers, Donations can be made  in Memory of Jan Murphy to Gilda's Club or The Kids Food Basket.