Phyllis C. Murphy

Phyllis C. (McAlice) Murphy, who was affectionately called “Shine” by family and friends, passed away peacefully at the age of 92 in her Walpole, Massachusetts home on Tuesday, October 29, 2019, surrounded by her loving family.  Born in Boston, Massachusetts on September 27, 1927, she was the daughter of the late John and Marion McAlice.  She was raised in Roxbury, graduating from Saint Patrick’s High School.  Following her graduation, Shine found work in a local manufacturing factory.

 

Shine was introduced to her husband-to-be, John A. Murphy, by his sister Kay, whom she worked with.  After a short courtship, Shine married John on August 25, 1949 in Saint Patrick’s Church in Boston.  The young couple made their home together in Boston, where Shine took on the role of a homemaker, raising and caring for her growing family.  Shine and John moved their family to Lawrence, Massachusetts in 1954 and three years later, the family settled in Methuen, Massachusetts.  While living in Methuen, Shine returned to the working world, offering services as a home health aid to various patients in her area.  She also worked part time in several nursing homes and department stores.  In 1971, Shine and John moved their family south to Walpole, Massachusetts, after John had secured a job at Bird & Sons in East Walpole.  Shine continued offering home health care services to anyone who was in need in her new community.

 

In her leisure time, Shine loved visiting Castle Island in Boston, taking time to enjoy the outdoors and ocean views.  She also enjoyed trying her luck at local casinos, almost always coming up a winner.  More than anything, Shine was dedicated to her family.  She lovingly took care of all her children, and always held a special place in her heart for her son, Jack.  She was strong in her Catholic faith and was a loyal friend to her girlfriends known since kindergarten whom with she frequently exchanged greeting cards to remain in touch.

 

Beloved wife of over 56 years to the late John A. Murphy.

Loving mother of John “Jack Murphy” of Belmont, Phyllis Stanovitch and her husband, John, of Mansfield, Patricia O’Mahoney of Walpole, Paul Murphy of Methuen, Thomas Murphy and his partner, Arlene Weeks, of Attleboro, the late Kevin Murphy and his surviving wife, Dianne, of Atkinson, New Hampshire, and the late Andrew Murphy.

Cherished grandmother of Robert Murphy, Sheila Roberts, Keri Stanovitch, John Stanovitch, III, Lori Stanovitch, Matthew Murphy, Michael Murphy, Thomas Murphy, Sinead O’Mahoney, and the late Eamon O’Mahoney and great grandmother of Samantha, Skylar, Zander, and Tyler.

Sister of Theresa Costa of San Diego, California, the late Cecelia Murgia, and the late John McAlice.

Also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews.  She also leaves behind many caring homecare workers who assisted Shine to remain living in her own home.

 

Relatives and friends are kindly invited to attend Shine’ Life Celebration on Sunday, November 3, 2019 from 3 to 7 PM and Monday, November 4, 2019 from 10 to 10:30 AM in the James H. Delaney & Son Funeral Home, 48 Common Street, Walpole.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Blessed Sacrament Church, 10 Diamond Street, Walpole on Monday, November 4, 2019 at 11:00 AM.  Interment will follow in Saint Francis Cemetery in Walpole.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: United Cerebral Palsy, 71 Arsenal Street, Watertown, MA 02472.