Shizuko Murphy

Shizuko “Suzie” Murphy, age 85, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2023 in Denver Colorado with her children by her side.  She was born on June 20, 1938 in Okinawa Japan. She was an elementary school teacher in Okinawa. It was there that she met her husband James “Jim” Murphy (12/21/1925-09/08/2001) who was stationed there with the US Army. They moved to Aurora Colorado and went on to have four children, Tom, Jim, Mimi and George.

Most of her career she spent teaching and working with children which brought her much joy.  She owned and operated a childcare center and worked for Denver Public Schools Montessori toddler and infant’s program later on until she retired.  She was very involved in the American Legion, being a lifelong member and also an active member in Colorado Okinawa Kenjinkai.  Suzie loved to play bingo, mushroom hunt, and spend time with her family and friends.  She was always on the go! She is survived by her four children Tom, Jim (Michele), Mimi (Lee) and George (Erica). Granddaughters Hailey and Sloane, 1 sister and also many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, a brother and 3 sisters.

Services will take place at Horan & McConaty in Aurora on Friday November 3rd at 2:00 p.m.  Burial services at Fort Logan will be private for immediate family on Tuesday November 7^th.  Flowers can be sent to Horan & McConaty, or in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Legion Post 23, 1662 S. Salida Way Aurora CO 80017.