Jane Melendy (Parker) Murray, 61, a native and lifelong Nashua resident, passed away in her home, Monday morning, March 23, 2015. She was born on March 31, 1953, a daughter of the late Charles M. and Barbara J. (Blodgett) Parker and sister of the late Gerry Flint Parker II.
Jane is survived by her husband of 36 years, Dennis P. Murray, and children Ian P. Murray and Rebecca J. (Murray) Pichardo and her husband Jose Pichardo.
Educated in local schools, Jane was a graduate of Nashua High School Class of 1971 and furthered her education at Plymouth State College, Lesley University, and Notre Dame College in Manchester, earning Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Education.
She began her career in teaching in 1976 at Thornton’s Ferry School in Merrimack. She taught at Auburn Village School from 1979 to 1984, and was a Teacher at Litchfield Middle School from 1986 to 2000. She then worked for the Nashua School District as a Special Education Teacher from 2000 to 2008. Jane later worked as a Special Education Teacher for the Merrimack School District; was an Administrator for the Bedford School District, and as an instructor at Southern New Hampshire University in Manchester.
A lifelong member of The First Church of Nashua, Jane served on the Board of Directors from 1995 -2000 and 2002 -2008; was the recipient of the Kathryn Brigham Award in 2001; and was Chairperson of the Personnel Committee from 1996 -2005.
Jane was active in the Girl Scouts throughout her life, and was the recipient of the First Class Award, God and Community Award, and Girl Scouts Appreciation Award. She was involved in AIDS Education and Outreach, as well as a Peace Activism. She will be remembered as a loving wife, devoted mother, and caring friend. Her enthusiasm for each day, and tireless efforts to spread joy to those around her will be greatly missed.
Services will be held Wednesday morning, March 25, 2015 at The First Church of Nashua, One Concord Street. A period of visitation will begin at 10 a.m. and her funeral service will be held at 11 o’clock followed by a reception at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Home Health & Hospice Care, 7 Executive Park Drive, Merrimack, NH 03054. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE, 18 Lock Street, Nashua. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneral.com
