Phyllis L Murdoch

Phyllis Lura Murdoch (née Pray), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and devoted homemaker, passed away peacefully on August 17, 2024, in her home with her family at her side.

Born on June 30, 1930, in Providence, Rhode Island, to Mary Lawrence and Andrew T. Pray, Phyllis lived a life of deep devotion to her family, faith, and community.

Phyllis was the cherished wife of the late James P. Murdoch, with whom she shared 65 years of marriage until his passing in 2015. Together, they built a legacy of love and family. Predeceased by her sister, Constance Mowry, Phyllis is survived by her six children: James Andrew Murdoch of Milford, CT, Lawrence Pray (Kim) Murdoch of Greenville, RI, Mary Margaret (Rick) Thornton of Raymond, ME, Roy Ibra (Alison) Murdoch of Gouldsboro, ME, Jean Ellen (William) Gallant of Windham, ME, and William Thomas Murdoch of Maine.

She was the proud grandmother of 17 grandchildren and lovingly known as "GG" to her 12 great-grandchildren, who were all touched by her warmth, wisdom, and gentle spirit.

As a devoted homemaker, Phyllis centered her life around her family, creating a home filled with love, care, and comfort. Known for always having a camera in hand, her dedication to documenting every gathering might have seemed endless at the time, but her family now treasures the lifetime of memories she preserved as a lasting gift.

Her kindness and quiet demeanor were balanced by a no-nonsense approach to life, making her both gentle and strong in character. Though she often observed from the sidelines, her steady presence radiated love and support. Phyllis found immense joy in watching her family thrive, always deeply proud of their accomplishments and happiness.

A talented seamstress and knitter, Phyllis ensured every grandchild and great-grandchild was wrapped in a lovingly made blanket. Her care extended not only to her family but also to the natural world around her. As an avid bird watcher, Phyllis devoted her mornings to tending her many feeders, carefully noting the birds that visited her yard. Her love for nature brought her peace, and her home was a haven for both her family and the wildlife she cherished.

Phyllis also had a deep love for Highland music and games, which her family actively participated in and attended together, creating fond memories of shared traditions.

A dedicated member of the First Congregational Church of West Haven for over 60 years, Phyllis served as a Deacon and nursery school teacher, nurturing the faith and hearts of many children in the community. She was a resident of Milford, Connecticut, for 73 years, a place she called home and where she made countless lifelong friendships.

Phyllis's life was a testament to love, faith, and service. Her gentle spirit, generosity, and unwavering dedication to her family and community will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Services will be held on Monday. August 26, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Congregational Church on The Green, 1 Church Street, West Haven, CT 06516.

The First Congregational Church of West Haven has a Remembrance Fund, often referred to as the Book of Remembrance. This fund allows members and friends of the church to make donations in memory of loved ones. Contributions to this fund help support the Church Sanctuary renovations and modifications.

For more details or to make a donation in Phyllis' name, contact the church directly at (203) 933-6291 or visit their website https://fccwesthaven.org