Muriel Murphy

Muriel (Hynes) Murphy, 97, died peacefully on July 20, 2021 at her home in Westwood, MA. She was the beloved wife of the late John E "Bud" Murphy and the devoted mother of her five children John E. Murphy Jr and wife Denise of Wellesley, Jane Murphy Hunter and husband John of Walpole, Christopher Murphy and wife Renee of Harwich, Regina Murphy Kirvan and husband Richard of Wareham and Lisa Murphy Anastas and husband Paul of Stow. She cherished her 8 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren and also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.

Muriel was born in Boston on July 12, 1924 to Irish immigrants, the late James and Kathleen (Murphy) Hynes. She was the oldest of three daughters and was preceded in death by her beloved sisters Jesse Keohane and Lillian Carroll. She attended Roslindale High School and later graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Boston College. After graduation, she took a position with New England Telephone Company where she worked at various positions until her retirement as an Executive Assistant in External Affairs.

Muriel and Bud were married on November 11, 1949 and resided in Roslindale, raising their 5 children until Bud's early death in 1970. Muriel was an incredibly strong woman who survived cancer shortly after her husband's death and then dedicated her life to raising her children, ensuring they had all the advantages she could provide them. One of her greatest joys was seeing all her children graduate from college and go on to successful careers.

In 1986, she met her beloved companion, Major General Charles Sweeney, and they spent many happy years traveling and enjoying their time together until his death in 2004.

When she was younger, Muriel studied French and was a member of the Alliance Francaise. She enjoyed tennis, piano and playing bridge. She had a love for the English language and would have no problem letting you know when your grammar was not correct! She was an avid reader and loved crossword puzzles with the ability to often complete the New York Times Sunday puzzle in record time.

Her Catholic faith was very important to her and she always chose to see the best in people. Muriel was a beautiful and elegant person both inside and out. When you first met her, you instantly knew you were meeting an exceptional individual. She had the innate ability to really listen, letting you know that your thoughts mattered. She offered assistance and support when needed but also knew when not to interfere. Muriel's most cherished memories were always the times she was able to spend with her family. She was immensely proud of her children and her entire family and leaves behind only loving memories.

Funeral services will be private to the family with a Celebration of her life planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to Dana Farber.