Jo Ann McCalment Murphy was the daughter of Luther Wayne and Mary Elizabeth Ruth McCalment. She was born on her family’s farm in Unionville, Mo on April 17, 1932. “Jody” passed away on March 5, 2017 due to natural causes while holding the hands of loved ones.
Jody grew up in Unionville, Mo. She attended Unionville High School graduating in 1950. Jody was an outstanding Baton twirler and was selected as Drum Majorette all four years of high school. She was a member of the Order of Rainbow for girls. Jody was chosen as the very first Pancake Day Queen in Centerville, Iowa when she was only 16 years old. After high school, Jody married Robert Neal Martin. Born to this union, were two children: Teresa Ann Godfrey (Gary) and Robert Thomas Martin (Marianne), four grandchildren: Richelle Lee (Travis), Tori Brown, Katy Martin, Kolby Martin, and six great-grandchildren: Jordyn Tipton, Keaton Lee, J.Parker Lee, Conner Pinkerton, Jake Lee and Jace Hilyard. Jody attended Indian Hills and received her Associates of Arts degree. Jody and Bob owned and operated Western Auto Store and the Unionville Flower shop. She was later employed at Putnam County State Bank for many years. Jody enjoyed time spent with her close friend Marvin McCreary. She moved to South Padre Island in the 1980’s. She loved living there and had many Island adventures, including surviving a hurricane. Jody was known for her bright red hair and fiery spirit. Her children and grandchildren enjoyed teasing her about the similarities between her and Blanche Devereaux on the Golden Girls. She relocated to Kirksville, Mo to be closer to family and married Harvey Murphy. Jody and Harv enjoyed traveling and spending many winters in Arizona. Jody loved crocheting, playing golf and redecorating. She was usually found reading the latest redecorating magazine stating with a smile, “I’m just getting some ideas.” Jody loved to cook and was always trying out new recipes. She could sit for hours enjoying the company of family and lifelong friends. She would often tell her family, "I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck!"
Jody was a member of the United Methodist church in Unionville, Mo.

She was preceded in death by her parents and children.
“Goodbyes are not forever, goodbyes are not the end. They simply mean I’ll miss you, until we meet again.” ~unknown
Although Jody will be greatly missed, we know she was looking forward to being reunited with her son and daughter. A graveside memorial Service will be held at Park View Memorial Gardens Cemetery on April 8th at 2:00pm in Kirksville, Mo. Family and friends are welcome.
Arrangements are under the direction of Travis-Noe Funeral Home of Kirksville.