Laura Noel Murphy

Laura Noel Murphy
September 14, 1968 – January 8, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Laura Noel Murphy of St. Charles, Illinois, on January 8, 2025, after a courageous and valiant fight against cancer.
Laura was preceded in death by her father, William Murphy (Chicago Police Department); her mother, Judith Murphy (née Wolfe); her siblings, Brian Murphy, Carrie (David) Wopinek, Jerry Murphy, and Michael Murphy; her nephew, David Wopinek; her niece, Caitlin Wopinek; her uncles, Harold Murphy, John Lopez, and Thomas Wolfe (Bolingbrook Police Department); her cousin, Michael Lopez (Chicago Fire Department); and other beloved family members who held a special place in her heart.
Laura was a beacon of love, strength, and kindness, known for her quick wit and impeccable comedic timing. Her presence brought light and laughter to everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Born on September 14, 1968, Laura grew up with a passion for helping others. She graduated from Bolingbrook High School in 1986 and worked tirelessly to put herself through college. In 1993, she earned her nursing degree from Lewis University, where she graduated with distinction on the Dean's List. This launched her into a lifelong career of caring for others, leaving an indelible mark on all those she touched.
Laura dedicated her adult life to her profession, working at Our Lady of Resurrection Hospital (Community First), as well as Delnor Community Hospital in Geneva (Northwestern Medicine). She concluded her career at Elmhurst Hospital, where she continued to provide exceptional care to others while bravely battling cancer, until she was no longer able to work and needed care herself in her final days. Her exemplary work as a compassionate nurse was acknowledged through the receipt of many prestigious awards for her unwavering commitment to exceptional patient care and service. Her tireless dedication to her patients and colleagues reflected her deep compassion and selflessness. She was beloved by all who had the fortune of meeting her.
Family was Laura's greatest treasure. She is survived by her two sons, Nicholas Castellano and Kevin Castellano, who were the light of her life. She also leaves behind her beloved "baby brother," Billy (Melody) Murphy (Chicago Police Department); her devoted aunts, Maureen Murphy, Andrea Wolfe, and Meredith Lopez; her adored nephews, Timothy Wopinek (Orland Park Fire Department) and Gavin Murphy; her loving nieces, Gabrielle Murphy and Grace Murphy; and her cherished cousins, Kim (Rich) Johnson (née Wolfe) (Downers Grove Police Department), Kris (Jeff) Hagen (née Wolfe), Tommy (Laura) Wolfe, Daniel (Bailey) Wolfe, Mat Lopez (Chicago Police Department), and Katie (Michael) Lopez (nee McKeon). Her love and devotion to her family were boundless, and she found immense pride and comfort in their support during her final weeks. Laura will be remembered for her vivacious personality, sense of humor, and ability to be the life of the party. Her laughter and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
A celebration of Laura's life will be held on Thursday, January 16, at Christ the Servant Catholic Church, 8700 Havens Drive, Woodridge, IL. Visitation will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Lung Cancer Foundation of America at https://lcfamerica.org in Laura's honor.
Arrangements entrusted to McCauley-Sullivan Funeral Home & Crematorium.