Helen Marie Murphy

It is with heavy hearts we announce the death of our dearly loved wife, mom, grandma, sister, aunt, and friend, Helen. Cherishing her memory are her husband of 56 years, Sheldon Murphy, daughter Sheila and husband Jack, daughter Linda, son Michael and wife Laure. All her loving grandchildren, which she adored, were Brandyn, Hannah, Malcolm, Meghan, Danica and Jackson. She is survived by her brother John Connelly and sisters, Mary Hartfelder, Joyce Popien, Louise Hutchinson, Diann Connelly, Caroline Connelly and Kathleen Golden and numerous brothers and sisters-in-law. Helen is predeceased by her parents, Carl and Margaret Connelly and sister Joan Connelly.

Helen grew up in the Elmworth area on the family farm, and after high school, she moved to Edmonton to attend nursing school and became a licensed practical nurse (LPN). Helen worked at various hospitals in central and northern Alberta and did a short stint in Ontario. While working in Red Deer, Helen met the love of her life, Sheldon, and they wed on August 27, 1966.

In 1969 Helen and Sheldon moved to Edmonton and purchased their forever home in Millwoods in 1973. It was here they planted their roots, creating a welcoming and loving home surrounded by exceptional neighbours who became lifelong friends. In the late 1980s, Helen embarked on her second career in Homecare. Her professionalism, caring nature and a keen interest in getting to know the people she helped build many treasured friendships.

Helen was also active in the community as a Girl Guide leader and volunteer at Grace Martin school. She would host field trips at her home where classmates learned from “Mrs. Murphy” how to make porcupine meatballs. When Helen wasn’t busy attending to her family or in the kitchen baking her much-loved buns, pies and cookies, you would find her enjoying her morning coffee and the newspaper, reading books or doing Saturday’s crossword puzzle.

By far, the time spent with family and her grandkids was her greatest joy while showing her love in many unassuming and immeasurable ways. Her generous heart has created countless memories that will forever be cherished.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Whitemud Creek Community Centre (951 Ogilvie Blvd NW, Edmonton, Alberta) on February 11, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. Like at Mrs. Murphy’s home, everyone is welcome, and a light lunch will be served following the program. For those that know Helen, it was all about the food and the people she loved sharing it with.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Helen’s favourite place, the Edmonton Public Library or the local library in your area.

Not a day goes by when you are not loved and missed - Forever in our hearts.