Our beloved mother and grandmother, Joan Helen (Rybicki) Murphy transitioned to Heaven on September 28, 2024 following her courageous battle with mandibular cancer.

Born on September 17, 1943 in Detroit to Walter and Helen (Biess) Rybicki, she was the adored younger sister of Irvin and Arthur.

Mom graduated from St. Andrews High school in Detroit in 1961, and followed her heart's calling to help the poor and less fortunate by joining the Daughters of Charity. She studied at St. Joseph College in Emmitsburg, Maryland, completing her Master's Degree in Education.

After graduation, Mom was assigned to the Diocese of Albany, Troy, NY and then to the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown, Canton, Ohio where she ignited the love of learning in the children she taught. Although she had followed her calling to serve the poor by joining the Daughters of Charity, her desire to have a family was stronger. She chose to leave the order in 1969. She and her husband, Patrick J. Murphy (d 1982), had two daughters, Kathleen and Mary.

In 1982 she continued her teaching career with the Martin County School District. Mom did what she loved- raising two daughters with love while passionately and patiently teaching hundreds of students at Jensen Beach Elementary. Twice she was named Martin County Educator of the Year.

Those who had the privilege of being in her classroom or working with her know how she loved to find ways to creatively teach. Her love of learning, witty personality and creative spirit brought the lessons to life.

For many years she was an active member at St. Martin de Porres Church, volunteering and teaching CCD.

After retirement, Mom generously donated her time as a docent and board member to the Elliott Museum where she was nicknamed "The Empress of the Emporium". The Elliott served as her new creative outlet where she could share her love of learning, teaching and connecting with others.

Mom is survived by daughters, Kathleen Smith (Jeff) and Mary. She is and always will be the much loved and adored "Fuzzy" to Paddon and Tanner.

We will miss her fuzzy facts, her sense of humor, our family dinners, her love of gardening, and her masterful seasonal decorations, especially her exquisite and painstakingly detailed Christmas trees.

Above all, we will cherish the feeling of love she created in all that she did.

Mom's life will be celebrated at the Dolphin Bar, Jensen Beach, on October 25th from 11:30 - 3:00 pm.  We welcome all who knew and loved Mom to come celebrate her life.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to a cause dear to Mom's heart, NAMI of the Treasure Coast, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting people and families affected by mental illness.