Jewell Marie Murphy

Jewell Marie (Bias) Murphy, 80, of Independence, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11, 2025, surrounded by her family.

Jewell was born in Dugginsville, Missouri, on February 11, 1945, to James Elva Bias and Thelma Ann (Beasley) Bias. She graduated from Gainesville High School in Gainesville, Missouri, in 1962, and moved to the Kansas City area soon thereafter. Jewell married her loving husband, John Wayne Murphy, on February 2, 1964, in Raytown, Missouri. Together, they settled in Independence and raised two sons: Ricky, born in 1968, and Shane, born in 1971.

Jewell worked at Hallmark Cards in 1962 before attending Independence Beauty School in 1964. From there, she worked as a hairdresser at Nicole Beauty Salon for two years. Jewell spent the next nine years at home supporting her sons through their various activities, such as serving as a Cub Scout den leader in Pack 192. Jewell founded Murphy's Beauty Salon in 1977, which she operated out of their home for eight years. Thereafter, she worked various production roles at McPike’s Inc., Lake City Army Ammunition Plant, and Lipton Tea Company until the mid-1990s, when she retired to watch her grandchildren — her greatest joy — to whom she was known both as “Grandma Angel” and “Mamma.”

Jewell loved to spend time with her family more than anything. She became the matriarch behind several family traditions, such as annual hunting trips and gatherings at the family’s ancestral home in Almartha, Missouri. She was a passionate artist with special talents in painting and crafting, most notably making unique Christmas ornaments for her family and friends each year. She was also a stellar cook, especially known for her cheese-stuffed jalapeño peppers. She had a gift for gardening and often helped out at her friends’ flower shops, such as Virgie's Flowers in Independence. Jewell’s heart also held a deep love for animals, and she is preceded in death by many beloved pet dogs. She will be remembered for her many passions, talents, and her sweet, caring spirit.

Despite several years of health challenges, Jewell proved tough and resilient, and routinely far surpassed medical expectations. Jewell is survived by her two sons, Ricky and Shane; respective daughters-in-law Teddi and Michelle; five grandchildren: Cameron, Mason, Ty, Tucker, and Skyler; two granddaughters-in-law Michelle and Aimee, one great-granddaughter, Olivia, plus another great-granddaughter on the way; and her miniature Australian Shepherd, Millie. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, their spouses, several great-nieces and nephews, and cherished friends.

In addition to her husband and parents, Jewell is preceded in death by her two brothers, Johnny Bias and Elva “Eddie” Bias, and three sisters, Alma “Lois” McKay, Helen McDonald, and Joyce James.

A visitation will be held from 1:00–2:00 PM on Friday, May 16, at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E 39th St S, Independence, MO 64055. Funeral services will immediately follow at 2:00 PM. Burial and graveside service will then be held at Oak Ridge Memory Gardens, 18301 E Salisbury Rd, Independence, MO 64056.

Jewell is remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and loyal friend to many people. The Murphy family wishes to thank their many friends for their support in this time of grief. Donations are suggested to local animal shelters or related causes in Jewell’s honor.

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel (816) 373-3600)