Jewell Marie Murphy, 80

Funeral services for Jewell Marie (Bias) Murphy, 80, of Independence, were held May 16, 2025, at Speaks Suburban Chapel in Independence. Burial was at Oak Ridge Memory Gardens, also in Independence. 

Jewell died on Mother’s Day, May 11, surrounded by her family. She was born in Dugginsville, on Feb. 11, 1945, to James Elva Bias and Thelma Ann (Beasley) Bias. She graduated from Gainesville High School in 1962, and moved to the Kansas City area soon thereafter. Jewell married her loving husband, John Wayne Murphy, on Feb. 2, 1964, in Raytown. 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, including serving as a Cub Scout den leader for 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, who were her greatest joy and who knew her as “Grandma Angel” and “Mamma.”

Jewell loved to spend time with her family more than anything. She became the matriarch behind several family traditions, including annual hunting trips and gatherings at the family’s ancestral home in Almartha. 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, including 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, she 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; many nieces and nephews; their spouses; several great-nieces and nephews; and cherished friends.

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

Donations are suggested to local animal shelters or related causes in Jewell’s honor.

Arrangements under the direction of Speaks Chapels, Independence.