Pauline Murphy

Peacefully at her home on Saturday April 25, 2020, at the age of 83 and surrounded by her family. Sadly, missed by daughters Nancy Murphy and Caroline (Shawn) Filion, and her only granddaughter Violetta Filion. Predeceased by her husband Maurice (Morris) Murphy, parents, Benoit (Ben) and Caroline Doucette and siblings, Joseph (Joe), Elois (Jerry) Doucette, Emily (Milly) Martin, Augustine (Jap) Doucette, Bernice Murphy, Edmond and Thomas Doucette.

Born in Rustico, PEI, Pauline moved to Toronto where she met and married the love of her life. Widowed at the age of 48, she raised her two daughters on her own and was so happy to welcome her only granddaughter who was the light of her life.

Following more than 20 years of service, Pauline retired from Brinks to spend more time with her family. During her tenure, she was a pioneer, working decades without complaint in a male dominated organization. Respected and extremely well liked, her hard work and dedication eventually led the organization to create a position for her that recognized her commitment to her work, and she was very proud of this recognition.

Pauline was the Matriarch of the family in Toronto. Always keeping in touch with her siblings, until their passing, and then their children, ensuring that the family never drifted too far apart. She made certain that everyone knew that she could always be counted on when needed and that she was never more than a phone call away.

Family was the centre of Pauline’s world, whether it was family movie night or family game night she was up for anything and never happier as long her family was together.

Pauline also loved to spend time with her extended family as well as friends both near and far and gladly welcomed all visitors with cookies and a cup of tea. Happily passing away the hours hearing all the news and visitors who stayed long enough were also treated to her delicious sandwiches.

A devout Catholic and member of the Catholic Women’s League, she was active in her parish for as long as she was healthy and able. She never missed a Sunday mass or a high holiday, watching mass on TV when she was no longer able to participate in person.

Pauline loved romance novels. A devoted Danielle Steele fan, she looked forward to new releases; however, if there wasn’t one available, she was also happy to re-read a past love and get caught up once again in the magic of the story.

Pauline had a way of always making Sunday dinners and holidays feel special, she cooked enough food to feed an army and would happily have fed one as well, should one happen to have stopped by. She instilled in her children a lifelong appreciation of the importance of family.

Pauline loved making puzzles and playing Yahtzee with her daughters and her granddaughter, bingo, with her nieces, the casino, on occasion, scratch tickets, as often as possible, playing games on her iPad, playing cards, Sega and checkers, but mostly she just loved spending time with her children and granddaughter and having company to chat with.

An avid knitter, when she was able. Every new baby was greeted with a beautiful hand knitted outfit. Family members were bestowed with many pairs of slippers, sweaters, blankets, scarves and dog coats. If you could envision it, she could knit it and she was more than happy to oblige.

Pauline loved her island and her many childhood memories of her own dear mother and of growing up on her family’s farm. Her countless trips back home provided the chance to reminisce and to visit family and old friends and she enjoyed these vacations beyond measure.

The family thanks Fay and Anna, two of Pauline’s at home caregivers, for providing much comfort and kindness to Pauline and her family.

Due to the need for social distancing her family must hold a private funeral. A celebration of life will be held, welcoming all who knew her, once the province has lifted its restrictions on gatherings.

Although Pauline loved flowers, if you prefer, donations may be made to Providence Healthcare.