Mrs. Nancy Jean O'Neil Murphy

Nancy Jean O’Neil Murphy LOWELL—Nancy Jean O’Neil Murphy, a longtime Lowell resident, died Saturday, September 23, 2017 at the Community Hospice House in Merrimack, New Hampshire, following an extended illness. She was the wife of John J. Murphy with whom she was married on June 25, 1989. Nancy Jean O’Neil Murphy was born in Brockton, MA , the daughter of the late Paul and Bernadette (Benoit) O’Neil. She received her education in the Lowell School System, LHS class of 1965. Nancy then received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Lowell State College and a Masters of Education from the University of Massachusetts at Lowell. Nancy was known for her generosity and always went out of her way to help those in need. She taught Kindergarten in the Lowell Public School System for 34 years, and bonded with many families at the Riverside, Rogers, and Lincoln Schools. Nancy was a communicant of St. Margaret’s Church in Lowell. She was also a Girl Scout Leader for years and an advocate for learning about art and culture. One of her greatest joys was spending time with her family, especially with her grandchildren. Besides her husband John J. Murphy, Nancy is survived by her children, Rebecca A. Powers of Lowell, Ryan Murphy and his wife Vanessa of Lowell, Meredith Powers Ferreira of Chelmsford; her granddaughters, Aurora Powers Ferreira of Chelmsford, Rowan Murphy of Lowell, and Callista Powers Ferreira of Chelmsford. Nancy is also survived by the father of her children, Edward Powers of Lowell; her siblings Daniel O’Neil and his wife Janet of Dracut, Michael O’Neil and his wife Gina of Stoughton, Denise O’Neil of Lowell, Mary McSweeney of Marshfield, Maria Monroe of Monroe, ME; many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Nancy was the sister of the late Patricia Valenti and Robert McSweeney. It being her wish, there will be no calling hours. A Life Celebration in her memory will take place at a later date. As an expression of sympathy, in lieu of flowers, donations in Nancy’s memory may be made to The American Cancer Society, PO Box 849168, Boston, MA 02284-9168 or at www. dana-farber.org or to the National Humane Society in your area. ARRANGEMENTS BY THE FAY McCABE FUNERAL HOME, 978-459-9222 www.faymccabe.com

Mrs. Nancy Jean O'Neil Murphy

June 20, 1947 - September 23, 2017