Josephine Spann Magness-Murtaugh

Josephine Spann Magness-Murtaugh of Bel Air, age 91, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 1, 2025, in Baltimore, Maryland.

Born in Morristown, New Jersey, Josephine was the beloved daughter of the late Josephine Eble Spann and Paul Joseph Spann. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, J. Henry Magness Sr., by her loving second spouse, Thomas Murtaugh, and by one sister and four brothers.

Josephine is survived by her children: Jacquelyn Seneschal and her husband Phillip, Anne Kidwell, Clare Alsharif and her husband Issam, Mary Schimminger and her husband Joseph, John Magness Jr. and his wife Deborah, Jane Davis and her husband Douglas, Paul Magness and his wife Stacey, Brenna Talbard and her husband Michael, Thomas Murtaugh Jr. and his wife Melissa, and Cristin Harrington and her husband Harry. Also, her foster daughters, Ann Robards and Theresa Hawkins. She leaves behind her siblings William Spann and his wife Frances, Ronald Spann, and Elizabeth Kneser as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, all of whom brought her great joy.

Josephine was an excellent role model and lived life dedicated to family, faith, and love. In addition to her roles as wife, mother, and grandmother, she had a long career as a nurse and was trained as one of the first nurse practitioners in Maryland. She worked in various hospitals, then with veterans in the VA system for 30 years. After retiring, she was outreach coordinator for St. Margaret's Catholic Church, and a chaplain for the Harford County Sheriff and Detention Center. She was a friend to everyone and truly touched 1000's of lives in her lifetime.

Josephine was affectionately known by her grandchildren for always having UTZ potato chips and Hershey chocolates at the ready. She had a passion for gardening—earning the nickname "The Midnight Gardener"—as well as a love for reading, most recently finishing Ben Hur. She was also an avid quilter who found peace and fulfillment in her craft.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or any organization that provides services to veterans, a cause close to Josephine’s heart.

An online guestbook is available at mccomasfuneralhome.com for those who wish to share memories or offer condolences.

Josephine will be remembered always for her warmth, strength, and the deep love she had for her family.