Dian Jean Murphy

Dian Murphy was born in Riverton, Wyoming, in 1937, to Harry R. Forbes and Helen Cline Forbes. She graduated from Washakie County High School in Worland in 1955 and attended the University of Wyoming, graduating in 1957.
Dian was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and a lifelong Episcopalian. She shared 59 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Kenneth, together they raised three daughters: Debbie, Tricia, and Susan. Her family was the center of her life.Dian had a joyful spirit and loved to sing and dance, especially when she could entertain her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her grandchildren — Brandon and Jordan Bishop, Jessie Murphy, Mollie Hairfield, Alek and Connor Keenan, and Jerica Morrison — held a special place in her heart, and she delighted in making them laugh and creating happy memories.Her great-grandchildren — Eliza and Jude Bishop, Carter and Aubrey Bishop,Shayde Lemmel, Lucy Swinford, McKenzie Hairfield, Rosalie, Scarlett and John Dill, — brought her tremendous joy, especially through the nursery rhymes and her childhood songs she loved to share.Dian devoted much of her professional life to education and service. She taught for two years in Newcastle before beginning a teaching career of more than 30 years at Lebhart Elementary School in Cheyenne. Following her retirement from teaching, she continued serving students and families by working for Safe and Drug-Free Schools for seven years.She enjoyed reading, attending Bible classes, and traveling throughout the United States and abroad. A devoted sports fan, Dian especially enjoyed following the Colorado Rockies, Denver Broncos, Denver Nuggets, and University of Wyoming Cowboys and Cowgirls.Dian will be remembered for her dedication to education, her generosity, and, above all, the kindness and joy she brought to everyone around her. She had a special way of making people feel loved and welcome.She was preceded in death by her parents, Helen and Harry Forbes; her beloved husband, Kenneth Murphy; and her grandson, Bryce Bishop.A funeral service will be held at St. Mark's Episcopal Church in Cheyenne on August 21 at 11:00 a.m., with a light lunch to follow.