Judy Gavin

Judy Murphy Gavin

A woman who selflessly dedicated her life to her family, friends, and patients, Judy died on May 21 at home in Petaluma, surrounded by loved ones, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Concord, Massachusetts on December 19, 1952, to Edward and Marjorie Murphy, Judy was one of eight children. She came from a family that was larger than life in personality, humor, and love for each other. Judy is survived by her daughter, Bridget Gavin of Seattle, Washington, sisters Pammy Murphy of Chester, New York and Jeanmarie Murphy of San Francisco, her brother Peter Murphy of Southboro, MA, her extended family in the Gavins, the Keefhavers, the McInerneys, along with her many cousins, uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, and a multitude of friends, all of whom mourn the loss of one of the finest women we have ever known. A hallmark of Judy's life was her selflessness, so it was no surprise that she chose a career in nursing. After receiving her nursing degree in MA, Judy moved to San Francisco, where she worked as a nurse in the Emergency Department at San Francisco General, and then later at Marin General and Novato Community Hospital. Judy's skill, calm demeanor, breathtaking smile, and humor not only eased the suffering of thousands of Bay Area patients over the years, but also resulted in lifetime friendships with many doctors and nurses at these hospitals. It was at SF General in 1976 that she met the love of her life, Tom Gavin, an SFFD paramedic. The two later married and started a family, settling in Petaluma with their daughter Bridget. In Judy, Tom found a perfect partner to travel the world with, often with golf clubs in tow. The two entertained family and friends for years in their backyard, as Tom barbequed and teased the guests while Judy poured the drinks and made everyone feel at home. Judy was also an amazing mother to Bridget-compassionate, steady, and always good humored. Judy and Bridget had a very special relationship, akin to sisters, particularly after Tom's untimely passing in 2006. Bridget, following in her mother's footsteps, is now a nurse in Seattle.

A celebration of Judy's life is planned for June 3, at 11 a.m., at St. Vincent's Church, 35 Liberty Street, Petaluma. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Judy's name to the American Cancer Society at 1-800-227-2345 or to the Tom Gavin Memorial Scholarship at St. Vincent de Paul High School in Petaluma.

Adobe Creek Funeral Home

Petaluma, California

707.789.9000