Ellen Marie Murtaugh

Ellen Marie Murtaugh was born after the Great Depression to a fun loving Irish father and a church loving mother. She had one big sister who became a loving surrogate mother and two older brothers who loved to tease their little sister. She grew up on Long Island New York with her stay-at-home mother and a father who was an elevator operator for one of the big New York City hotels. As a treat her father would bring Ellen to work with him to ride up down with him.

After graduating high school Ellen was accepted into Julliard School of Music with majors in piano and voice. She taught piano lessons both on Long Island and when she and her parents moved to Austin.

Ellen worked at the University of Texas in various departments until she retired in her seventies. Throughout most of this time, Ellen accepted the role of care-taker to her elderly parents. She never learned to drive, but could get around Austin with public transportation and the help of friends.

During her life, Ellen developed many meaningful, long-lasting friendships which were very important to her.

She loved teaching children about God. She taught Sunday school for many years at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church. She also sang in the church choir, played the piano, and was a leader.

When it came time for her to move into a place where she could have assistance, she did so with grace and dignity. Even in her later years Ellen continued to demonstrate a sweet, loving, and fun spirit. She enjoyed competing and proudly displayed her many medals and awards. She continued using her musical abilities by playing the piano for church services and the enjoyment of the residents.

Those of us who were given the privilege of knowing Ellen are better for it and we will miss her greatly.