Kathleen Gardner Murphy

Kathleen Gardner Murphy was born in Lynn, MA on September 27, 1936. She passed from this earthly plane on May 28, 2018, surrounded by her adoring family in Oriental, NC.

Kathleen leaves behind Francis, her devoted husband of 60 years; 6 children: Brian (m) Marian, Laura (m) Braxton Baldridge, Stephanie (m) Johnny Murray, Cindy (m) Steven Mendel, Christopher (m) Jenelyn, and Gardner (m) Rebecca; 5 grandchildren: Brendon (m) Carolyn, Kye (m) Andrea, Caylin, Devyn and Jenna; 5 great grandchildren: Aidan, Annalise, Sean, Phineas and Nora Frances. Kathleen was raised in Lynn, MA and is predeceased by 5 siblings.

Kathleen graduated from Lynn Hospital School of Nursing in the class of 1957, and completed post-graduate studies at Boston University. She was an obstetrical nurse at Lynn Hospital, and later an RN Nurse Counselor for Hospice of Pamlico County in Bayboro, NC. Kathleen also participated in the Harvard Nurses’ Study, beginning in 1976, which examined risk factors for major chronic diseases in women over a 40-year period.

Kathleen was known for her immense talents and eclectic interests. In addition to being a published poet, she enjoyed sailing, camping, birdwatching, singing, and laughter. She was also an avid antique collector, dealer, and shop owner. Kathleen was a shining beacon of love and joy for all who knew her. She planted seeds of music and magic everywhere she walked---seeds that have flourished into a legacy that is forever carried forward by her loving family.

Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. at St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church, 1149 White Farm Rd., Oriental, NC, on Thursday, May 31st.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Pamlico County (Bayboro) and the Community Homecare and Hospice of New Bern.