Estelle Jean Murphy

Estelle Jean Murphy passed away on April 4, 2017, at the age of 87, in Overland Park, KS. Estelle was born Genevieve Therese Murphy and nicknamed Jean. She entered the world on May 15, 1929 in Kansas City, the oldest child born to M.A. “Al” Murphy and Margaret Genevieve (Doyle) Murphy. She graduated from Saint Teresa’s Academy in 1946. She attended the College of Saint Teresa (now Avila University) until she joined religious life in January 1947. She joined the order of the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and took the name Estelle. She continued her education at a variety of universities during her religious formation including Loyola University, Saint Louis University, Albertus Magnus College and the University of Pittsburgh. Estelle earned a Master’s in Education. She made her final profession in August 1953. She remained in religious life for 23 years until 1970. Estelle’s career was dedicated to the service of others. She was a Principal for 25 years at St. Anthony’s School for Exceptional Children in Oakmont, PA near Pittsburgh. She then became Principal at St John’s Catholic School in Wellsville, VA. She moved to Paola, KS in 1988 and worked at Lake Mary Center until 1995. She worked and volunteered at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Paola and the Tri-KO Community Development Organization. She was a member of the Holy Trinity Women’s Group and Shamrock Study Club and several bridge groups. Estelle is survived by her brother, Pat Murphy of Overland Park, KS and brother-in-law, Jerry Higgins of Peoria, IL. She is also survived by 10 nieces and nephews and many great nieces & nephews. She was preceded in death by her dear friend, Sister Carleen Richards, CDP and two sisters; Mary Louise Froeschl and Margaret Ann Higgins, sister in law, Elizabeth “Betty” Murphy and brother in law, Philip Froeschl. Estelle spent her entire life dedicated to the education of special needs children and service to others. We will miss her quick wit, sarcastic sense of humor, always looking at the bright side and finding the best in others. The funeral will be Wednesday, April 12, 2017 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Paola, KS. Visitation will be from 9:00 - 10:30 a.m., Rosary at 10:30 a.m. and Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. There will be a luncheon immediately following mass with internment at Mount Olivet in Raytown, MO at approximately 2:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Paola, KS. Family and friends are encouraged to post their condolences and memories on Estelle's Tribute Wall at www.dengelmortuary.com.