Tom MURPHY

Tom Murphy
Passed away on July 18, 2015, in the caring environment provided by Parkwood Institute (London, ON) and in the company of his life partner, Tess Hooks. Tom was born October 14, 1947, in Amherst, NS.

As a friend, lover, parent, activist, writer and teacher, Tom was a model for compassion and social justice. Tom's vibrant embrace of life was diverse and far-reaching – good food, wine and beer, outdoor adventures, and intimate conversations. Tom loved to laugh, often at his own expense, he brought smiles and joy to all those around him. His philosophy, wit and wisdom infused his final public address, Notes on the Art of Dying (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKUhhkHA7Jg).

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Roy and Doris Murphy. He is survived by ten siblings, 35 nieces and nephews, his life partner, Tess, his beloved children, Breana Hooks and Conor Murphy and his puppy, Kahlua.

Tom will be commemorated at 1:00 p.m., on August 2nd, at Bellamere Winery (London, ON). Donations may be sent to Oxfam Canada (http://www.oxfam.ca/), Canadian Feed the Children (http://www.canadianfeedthechildren.ca) or the White Ribbon Campaign (http://www.whiteribbon.ca/).

'When we come together We share our stories and we sometimes laugh 'til our bellies hurt' Tom Murphy