Janet O'Donnell Murphy Passes Away at 83, Leaving a Legacy of Community Engagement
Janet O'Donnell Murphy, a respected member of the Chicago community, passed away peacefully at the age of 83 on April 7, 2026. Born in Dorchester, Boston, she was the youngest of eight children in the O'Donnell family. Janet's life was marked by her dedication to service and community involvement, having spent formative years in Morocco with the Peace Corps. She built a career in social work and later transitioned into real estate, maintaining a strong connection with her community throughout her life. Janet is survived by her husband of 45 years, Thomas Murphy, her four children, and ten grandchildren. Her warmth and welcoming nature left a lasting impression on all who knew her. A visitation and Funeral Mass are scheduled to take place at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago on April 10, 2026.