Shannon Ryan Torphy

(Asbury Park Press)

SHANNON RYAN TORPHY
AGE: 79
OCEAN TOWNSHIP
Shannon Torphy (nee Ryan), 79, of Ocean Township, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2010, at CentraState Medical Center, Freehold Township. Born in Lincoln, Neb., Shannon was the daughter of the late Leo J. and Autumn M. Ryan and grew up in Massachusetts. She was schooled in Washington, D.C. and China, earning a bachelor's degree in geology, before marrying the love of her life and moving eventually to Colts Neck. Predeceased by her husband, William A. Torphy, in 2006, she had recently relocated to Ocean Township. Shannon was a loving mother and grandmother, enjoyed the ocean and collecting cooking recipes. At times a cartographer, camper and explorer, she lived a full and interesting life.
Surviving Shannon are her three sons, William Jr., Timothy and Cormac Torphy; her daughter, Sheelagh Zaklukiewicz; and her grandchildren, Heather, Heidi, Maureen, Shannon, Kelsey and Caragh, as well as several nieces, nephews throughout the country. She is also survived by her home companion and friend, Adjoe "Tiki" Dufie.
Higgins Memorial Home, Freehold, is taking care of arrangements. There will be no calling hours. A memorial service to celebrate Shannon's life will be held at a future date to be announced.
Shannon very much loved animals and appreciated those that cared for them. Donations in memoriam may be made to the Associated Humane Societies Popcorn Park Zoo, P.O. Box 43, Forked River, NJ 08731-0043 (http://www.ahscares.org).