Joe Allen MurphyOjai, CAApril 10, 1956-December 23, 2016Joe Alan Murphy (Joe) passed away prematurely on December 23, 2016. He was born on April 10, 1956 in Bedford, Indiana, the youngest of four. He was 60 years young at his passing. He attended various schools in the Country while his father served in the military. This experience contributed to Joe's ability to seamlessly adapt and navigate many opportunities and collect memories and friends along the way. In 1974 Joe joined the United States Marine Corps (USMC). While serving in Okinawa, Japan, he earned is High School diploma while studying at the Kubasaki High School and while working as an aircraft mechanic on fighter planes, in particular the F-19's. After serving his Country honorably, he specialized in the repair, maintenance and monitoring of city water management systems.In 1983, Joe applied for and was accepted to study at Humboldt State University. Graduating in 1987 with his degree in Microbiology, Joe began his teaching career in Gonzales, CA, and then transferred to the Ventura Unified School District, and finally, the Oxnard School District. In his 28 years of public school service, he taught science, mathematics and physical education at the middle and junior high school levels, touching thousands young lives and making a difference. His leadership experience included science mentor, science department chair, School Site Council Chair, District Curriculum Council Executive Board Member, and student advisor of the Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) club, the precursor to STEM. He was a life-long Raiders fan and the USMC remained a part of who he was, "once a Marine, always a Marine". When he stood for a cause as a teacher or teacher-leader, while his approach may have been unconventional, Joe's principles were consistent and his heart beat for the underdog. Colleagues and friends who knew him well remember him as a kind and gentle caring man upon who could be counted unconditionally. Joe loved to cook, enjoy great wine, hosting dinner parties, being around people, and engaging in spirited conversations. To further the steadfast model he shared and to continue his legacy he is survived by his mother, Beverly, his son Joe Jr., daughters Athena Rae, Cassandra, Erin, and Mollie Jo, granddaughter Moniquee and grandsons Joseph, Ozrik and Hendrix. Apart from his family, he leaves behind his treasured special friend and partner Eleanor. Countless colleagues also remember Joe as a consummate supporter and friend. His playful spirit will be missed.