Helen M. Murphy

She was born to the late Edward J & Mary G. Ratican on August 1, 1925 in Philadelphia, Pa. She graduated from St Athanasius in 1939 and then from Little Flower High School in 1943.Helen continued her friendship with many of her classmates throughout her life and attended numerous reunions.

Upon graduation Helen worked at First National Bank in Philadelphia where she met the love of her life, James M. Murphy Jr. While they were dating Dad went off to serve in WWII. During his two years away Mom patiently waited for his return and they married November 29, 1947. They resided in Philadelphia where four of their six children were born.

In 1957 they made the move to the "country", Levittown, Pa. The family was made complete with two more children in 1959 & 1961.

Mom was a Charter Member of Queen of the Universe Church and was involved in various committees such as Regina Guild and the weekly cleaners of the Church. Other activities were Red Hat Society, Statesman Nursing Center Rosary Group and Middletown Seniors where she enjoyed taking trips and making ceramics. Mom worked for Neffles Bakery in the local shopping center and was a playground aide at Albert Switzer Elementary School for 18 years.

Mom also loved her monthly Bunco Group which consisted of a wonderful group of women. She played over 55 years until the COVID pandemic. Mom also enjoyed her Thursday night trip to Dairy Delite for ice cream.

Mom loved to entertain and there were many parties at 16 Hunt Road. She was a gentle soul and had a very unique gift of listening to other's talk, while never judgmental and accepted everyone with open arms. We were very fortunate Mom was able to stay at 16 Hunt Road for 64 years, until 2021.

Mom was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, her eldest son James M Murphy III, youngest daughter Maureen T. Murphy, her brother Edward Ratican Jr. and sister Rita E. Ratican.

She is survived by Kathryne T. Murphy, widow of James III, Michael and Susan Murphy Sr, Joseph and Terry Murphy, Patricia and Roy Deese, Kathleen and Larry Spinosa along with 20 grandchildren; 21 great grandchildren; cousins; nieces; nephews; and numerous friends.

The family would like to thank Chandler Hall Hospice who provided Mom with exceptional comforting care during her final 2 days.

Friends and relatives can visit with the family on Monday, March 14, 2022 at Queen of the Universe Church, 2443 Trenton Road, Levittown, PA 19056, from 9:30 to 10:30 am, where her funeral mass will be celebrated at 10:30 am. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Bensalem.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Queen of the Universe Church at the above address.