Sharon Murray Obituary

Sharon Lynn Murray, a cherished resident of West Lafayette, Indiana, passed away peacefully after an extended illness on December 7, 2024, just days shy of her 83rd birthday. Born on December 11, 1941, Sharon was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and educator whose life was marked by love, dedication, and service to her community.
Sharon graduated from Purdue University in 1963 with a degree in Child Development & Family Living. That same year, she married the love of her life, William Murray, on December 28. Together, they built a family filled with love and warmth, raising three children: Kelly Murray (Dave Azpell), Scott Murray (Amy Welborn), and Todd Murray. Sharon's legacy continues through her beloved grandchildren, Teryn Azpell, Mackenzie Murray, Genevieve Murray, Annabelle Murray, and step-grandsons Travis Grey and James Grey.
A passionate educator, Sharon dedicated 35 years to teaching kindergarten in the West Lafayette School Corporation. Her commitment to excellence in education was recognized with the prestigious Golden Apple Award in 1996. In 1999, Sharon participated in a teacher exchange program between the United States and Japan, sponsored by Subaru-Isuzu Automotive, where she travelled to Japan to share and gain invaluable insights with fellow educators. One of Sharon's favorite things about being a teacher was when former students would come back to the school to visit her classroom before graduating high school and over the holidays when home from college. She left an indelible mark on so many children in the community, and they left the same on her.
Sharon took great pride in her handmade Christmas cards/ornaments which she started making in 1964. They are treasured by many and still adorn Christmas trees every year. She loved cooking classes, reading, basket weaving, and playing dominos and card games.
One of her great passions was Zeta Tau Alpha. A member for 64 years, she served as the National Archivist and a district president. Sharon was the proud matriarch of three generations of Zeta Tau Alphas. Spending time with friends at ZTA Conventions were some of her most cherished memories.
Sharon is survived by her loving husband Bill, her children, grandchildren, and her brother Garry Bryant (Margy McGonagill). She was preceded in death by her parents, Jerald and Violet Bryant, and her sister, Jerrilynn Bryant.
Sharon's life was a testament to her unwavering dedication to family and education. Her warmth, kindness, and passion for teaching have left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by her family, friends, and the countless students whose lives she touched.
In lieu of flowers, Sharon's request was that donations be made directly to the elementary school teachers in your local districts.