Janet Mae Theresa Crickmore Molton Murphy

Janet Mae Theresa Crickmore Molton Murphy, Nurturer, age 93 of Dayton, passed away Saturday, October 31, 2026 at home. She was born October 29, 1933 in Dayton, Ohio.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Mary Lehman Truss; father, George W. Crickmore; first husband, Harold Jackson Molton I; second husband, Coakley Murphy; son, Harold J. Molton; daughter, Amanda M. (Billy) King; three grandchildren, Travis, Derek, Halley; five siblings; and lifelong friend, Katy Mae Russell.

Janet is survived by her special niece, Helen Dale; her children, Jeffrey A., Timberly Eric, Mary Beth, Susan A. (Greg), Richard C., Jonathan "Rusty"; 14 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, brother, Charlie Crickmore. She is also survived by numerous family and friends.

She was raised at St. Joseph’s Orphanage in Dayton and attended Julienne High School, experiences that helped shape her resilient spirit and compassionate heart. A devoted homemaker and beloved matriarch, she took great pride in creating a warm and welcoming home while raising a large and loving family alongside her husband.

She found joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially reading, sharing stories, and spending time with friends at the Polish Club. Blessed with a true green thumb, she enjoyed tending to her flowers and garden. Known affectionately as the family’s "crazy cat lady," she adored her cats and dogs and had such a gentle nature that she would carefully carry insects back outside rather than harm them.

She also had a playful and competitive side, particularly when it came to poker, where she delighted in winning a few dollars from her children whenever she had the chance. Above all, she cherished time spent with her husband and family, building a beautiful legacy through their many children, grandchildren, and the countless memories they shared together.

The family hopes those who would like to honor her will find a quiet time to remember who she was in your life and be thankful for the time you had together. Celebration of life will be held at a later date.

To share a memory of Janet or leave a special message for her family, please visit the Guestbook below.