Judith M. "Dobbins" Murdock

SALEM - Judith M. (Dobbins) Murdock, 82 of Salem, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at her home, with her daughters by her side. She was the widow of the late Stephen Murdock.

Born in Portland Maine, she was the daughter of the late James and Ruby (Kelley) Dobbins. She was raised and educated in Maine, where she received her bachelor's degree from Husson College.

Judith embarked on a long and successful career as an Administrator in the medical field, managing practices, running pediatric clinical trials, and working for many years at Connecticut Children's Hospital in Hartford Connecticut. Her passion for helping others impacted countless lives in the communities she served. Judith's insightful but no-nonsense attitude left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know her. Her work in hospital administration not only showcased her leadership skills but also her heartfelt dedication to improving patient care and operational excellence.

Outgoing, friendly, and happy to be helpful, Judith loved to chat with people. She never met a stranger, only a new friend. She would readily stop and talk to folks walking in Salem, giving directions to those who looked lost. She would often invite neighbors over for a glass of prosecco on her porch, regaling friends and strangers alike with stories of Salem and life in general. A resident of the Witch City for many years, she was committed to her community. As an active member of the Historic Derby Street Neighborhood Association, she was looking forward to participating in the upcoming Great Salem Maritime Cardboard Boat Regatta. By volunteering at Bakers Island Light Station, she honored her family's long heritage of lighthouse caretaking that spanned the entire New England coastline.

Judith will be remembered fondly for her outgoing and irreverent personality and her tireless zest for life. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Surviving Judith are her daughters, multi-disciplinary artist Jessica Murdock of Salem and Navy Commander (Retired) Stephanie Murdock of La Mesa, California, her two sisters, and several nieces and nephews. She will also be greatly missed by her loving feline companion Cynthia.

ARRANGEMENTS: We encourage everyone to celebrate Judith's life by cheering on her namesake boat at The Great Salem Maritime Cardboard Boat Regatta on Saturday, August 9th. Assisting the family with the arrangements is O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq., (at Salem Common) SALEM. Expressions of sympathy may be made in Judith's memory to Northeast Animal Shelter: https://www.mspca.org/adoption-centers/northeast-animal-shelter/. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnnellfuneralservice.com.