Joyce Elaine Murphy

She was preceded in death by her parents, Viola and William Cords; her brothers, Marvin and Bill; her sisters, Joann and Wilma; her husbands, Everett Walker, Bill Clayton, and Roy Murphy; and her son-in-law, Kerry Harwick.

Joyce is survived by her loving daughters, Linda (Ken) Dechant, Peg (Rick) Thiesen, and Dee Harwick; as well as Cindy and Jim Currie; brother, Herb Cords; and sister, Mary Cline. She is also survived by 17 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren, all of whom were a great source of pride and joy in her life.

Joyce’s life began on a farm in Leshara, Nebraska, where she learned the values of hard work, faith, and devotion to family that guided her throughout her life. Professionally, she worked diligently as a secretary at Westside High School, Control Data, and Applied Communications, where she was respected for her dedication and reliability.

Above all, Joyce will be remembered as a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was extremely caring and generous, always placing the needs of others before her own. Joyce remained deeply connected to family and friends throughout her life, faithfully sending cards and handwritten notes that reflected her thoughtfulness and enduring care. She greatly enjoyed spending time with friends over spirited games of pinochle and bridge and was known to be a fierce and enthusiastic card player.

Central to Joyce’s life was her Catholic faith. Her love of the Lord was evident in the way she lived, served others, and faced life with grace and humility. She found joy in traveling, gardening, and baking, and she was especially known for her brownie cups, potato salad, and deviled eggs—favorites at many family gatherings.

Joyce will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. She leaves behind a lasting legacy of faith, love, generosity, and friendship that will continue to live on in the hearts of those she touched.

A visitation will be held at St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic Church, located at 16701 S St., Omaha, Nebraska, 68135, on December 18, 2025, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, with a Rosary Service to begin at 7:30 pm.

The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at the same venue on December 19, 2025, starting at 10:30 am.

Following the service, a graveside service will be conducted at Calvary Cemetery, located at 7710 W Center Rd, Omaha, Nebraska, 68124, on December 19, 2025, at 2:00 pm.

Memorials may be directed to St. Stephen the Martyr Catholic Church or to Peaceful Hearts Hospice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at westlawnhillcrest.com for the family of Joyce Murphy.