Ruth Murphy

June 24, 1926 - November 16, 2010

Ruth Harvey Murphy passed away peacefully at Griffin Hospital in Derby, CT on Tuesday, November 16 with her loving family at her side. Ms. Murphy was a long-time resident of the area, living the last 68 years in CT. She was born in St Albans, Vermont in 1926. Ms. Murphy was 84 at the time of her passing. While raising her two daughters with her husband Maurice Murphy, who pre-deceased her in 2001, Ruth became a licensed Connecticut Broker in 1972. She served as President of the Valley Board of Realtors in 1977-78 and served in various capacities on multiple committees through the years. In 1978, Ms. Murphy was voted “Realtor of the Year.” At the time of her passing, Ruth remained the president her of own real estate firm, Ruth H. Murphy Realtors of Seymour, CT. Always tolerant and industrious, Ruth was a mentor for dozens of younger Realtors, many of whom still work in the area. Never afraid to speak her mind, Ruth helped instill a positive “can do” attitude and impressive work ethic in the many lives she touched. At age 84, Ruth still went to her office nearly every day. The success of her real estate career is testimony to her serving as an inspiration and a role model for her professional colleagues. Ruth’s generous spirit lives on as is reflected in her two beautiful daughters, Trisha Murphy (Rick Freedman) of Fairfield and Laura Oemcke (Roy Oemcke) of New Hartford. Grandma was also a “favorite” of her beloved grandchildren, Alex and Chris Freedman, and grandchildren Arielle and Devon Oemcke. Whether it was baking pastries, playing board games, braiding rugs, providing counsel, engaging in active conversation, or simply listening, Ruth was “always there” for her family. Always unassuming, Ruth’s humble and gracious ways made all feel welcome. She often volunteered her time to assist various charitable causes without acclaim, and was always willing to lend a hand to those in need. The world needs more Ruth Murphys. Surely the angels were joined by one of their own this past Tuesday. Ruth is survived by two sisters, Alice H. Boissevain and Isobel Frager, a brother, Carl Peters and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by four brothers, Lawrence Harvey, Ernest Harvey, Sydney Harvey and Kenneth Harvey. Calling hours for friends and family are on Friday, November 19 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at the Miller Ward Funeral Home, 260 Bank Street, (Route 67 across from Klarides Village) Seymour. Mass will be held DIRECTLY on SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20 at the Church of the Good Shepherd, 135 Mountain Road, Seymour at 10:00 am. Interment in Mountain Meadows Cemetery. The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Bridgeport Rescue Mission, P.O. Box 9057, Bridgeport, CT 06601 in memory of Ruth. For information or to offer an online condolence please visit us at www.millerwardfuneralhome.com.