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Iris Murphy Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Iris Murphy
Lobster Fanatic
January 23, 2009
1994
January 23, 2009
1974
January 23, 2009
linda lanphear
March 16, 2008
Dear Jim
There are some very special people who have a huge impact on everyone they meet.
Iris as you know well, was one of those Special Ones. ..who live life larger, wilder, funnier and with more feeling than any of us mere mortals.
She is and shall remain "the stuff of legends" for us and for all who knew her.
As i prepare for my daughter's wedding, dragging out the old photos of all of us, you and Iris, Len and I , in each other's weddings ..there at the beginning of our married lives..the memories come flooding back.
I am so happy for all of it, every bit, as how well...mundane, things would have been without Iris.
She was never dull never boring never without comment!!
She most Certainly is and shall always remain, a permanent and indelible part of my life..forever.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you always.
"The Quad L's"
Linda and Len Lanphear
Ed Gallacher
February 10, 2008
Jim, I am saddened by your loss of Iris. I will always have fond memories of our last reunion in Rochester this past summer. Iris had a great time and was highly entertaining. We all had lots of fun that day. Its hard to believe that she is now gone. Over the past 30+ years, and many visits, Iris was mostly in good spitits, warm, caring and lots of fun, in spite of her physical condition. I truly admire you for being there for her through her decades of pain and suffering. You were a great husband and friend. I know you will continue to miss her.
Susan Lockwood
February 7, 2008
I have a fabulous photo of Iris, Millington and Billy (probably under age 2)on our boat. Iris is holding a huge fish that she caught off the back of the boat. The fish was as big as Billy was. This was on a 4-day Memorial Weekend cruise. No one before or since ever caught a fish off the boat. We had such wonderful times cruising with Jim and Iris, and I treasure those and other memories so much. We were so young!
George Rawson I I I
February 3, 2008
I recall the fond memories of Jim and Iris spending a month at the cabin in Centennial Wy. Jim went on one of his motorcycle rallies and left Iris at the cabin. Periodically the phone would ring at the ranch and it would be Iris needing me to bring the dogs down because the racoons were climbing up the side of the cabin, driving her crazy. Other time the cows were in the front yard, needing shooed away. Jim: I will always cherish our times sitting on the front porch of the ranch house, discussing my employment with Nita, and watching it storm.
Maria (Graziano) Osani
February 1, 2008
Iris was one of the many friends I had the privilege of knowing at a time when we were all so young, eager and hopeful about our uncertain futures. The older you get, the more you realize how fragile life is. I see that Iris was loved by so many people and isn't that the best testament for her life.
Nancy Lombard
February 1, 2008
I always enjoyed Iris' company. She was so friendly and interesting to talk to. I am especially glad that I got to see her this past summer. She looked wonderful and spoke openly about her return to the church. Jim, she told me more than one time, that you were the best thing that ever happened to her. I will cherish my memories of Iris and pray that Jim finds peace in his memories of such a loving, devoted wife.
Nancy
Eileen Cowan (Kelly)
January 30, 2008
I'm so sorry for your loss. I knew Iris many, many years ago in high school but I still remember her. She was so full of life and was always smiling. My condolence to you and the rest of her family. My prayers are with you all.
Andy & Billie Lupher
January 29, 2008
Jim - We were glad to have you and Iris in our lives the last few years. We shared so many common interests and "tricks of the trade." She will be deeply missed but we look forward to continuing to include you in our family gatherings and traditions.
Ruth Moore
January 29, 2008
For you, Jim!
I can't be there to share your pain, but I will always be here to share the wonder of being a part of Iris's life.
It's taken me a while to gather the words to describe what she will always mean to me and I still keep falling short of my feelings.
The truth being that I have 35 years of laughter and outrageously funny memories associated with our moments together and, though we all have reasons to mourn the loss of Iris, I can't keep from smiling when I think of her.
When you are very old, as I am, your memories are a palpable part of your everyday life and I am most fortunate to have Iris there center stage at all the various sites: Chatham, Canandaigua, Echo Summit, El Cerrito...any place she could catch up with me.
Wherever I am I'll always be willing to share memories with you.
Peace for us all. Foof.
Susanne Marshall Chiang
January 29, 2008
Jim,
In recent weeks, as I've gone through my daily routines, I can't help but stumble upon reminders of Iris. A note in the front of the Joy of Cooking book you both gave as a wedding gift; the map puzzles in Molly and Grace's room that she gave on the last visit we all had in CT; toy trucks for Aidan; her secret salt in the spice cabinet; and even Tiffany rattles still floating around my house that Iris gave as baby gifts. She introduced Molly to one of her favorite books, "Clementine."
Iris was incredibly generous to all of us and we so enjoyed having her and you to help celebrate all the Murphy-Marshall kids' weddings. Her presence in our lives`was the only link to an extended Murphy clan and we will forever be grateful that she opened that door for us and for our mother. Her laughter and loving spirit will long be missed.
Your Murphy cousin,
Susanne
Betsy Carter
January 29, 2008
Iris was such fun! My first memory of her was on a raft-up, a collection of boats on one anchor, on the Chesaspeake Bay when I was a new member of the Sailing Club of Washington. We sang old songs and laughed till the wee hours. I became sold on SCOW! I have admired Iris' thoughfulness, optimistic outlook, intelligence and continuing sense of humor as she struggled with pain over so many years. She was a strong, unique person whom I will miss. Jim you were a wonderful husband to Iris. You are in my thoughts and prayers. The memorial service was beautiful.
George Rawson IV
January 28, 2008
I have some very fond memories of times spent with Iris and Jim. Whether we were bird watching in Wyoming, enjoying a holiday in New York City, or baking a lemon meregue pie in Bethesda, I learned so much and had a wonderful time.
Iris- thank you for opening my eyes to so many thoughts and experiences. You lived life to it's fullest and will be dearly missed.
Jim- The short visits to your home on the weekends were my link to sanity while living on the East coast. You have always been there for me and know that I will always be there for you.
Tom McGrath
January 27, 2008
Jim and Iris, I was honored to be your best man at the beginning of your life together; you were both so full of love and promise. Jim, your comment to me last fall that you would do it all over again touched me deeply.
Iris, you have always made an impact on those around you with your spirit and grace. You will be missed and remembered by those who loved you for all you did.
Jim, our sympathy and love to you. We will always be here for you.
Tom, Pat, Elizabeth and John
Alan Goodman
January 24, 2008
Jim,
Instead of trying to reprise the letter I sent you, I'll simply say that I was fortunate to know Iris and will always be grateful for the friendship that she and you generously shared. While her pain was onminpresent, the voice and visual memories I will carry with me will be those of her laugh, her smile, and her special take on the world...not to mention her integrity, which always stood out. I hope it will always be a source of pride and solace to you that your love and friendship with Iris allowed that to flourish.
Alan
Nita Engen
January 23, 2008
To my friend, Iris - I will miss you. The birding, the cooking, the dining, the scrabble, the gardening, the arts, the wines, our love of cats, designing our homes, the study of current events and history ... I learned so much from you. I remember trips to the Everglades, Fire Island, the West Side, the Snowy Range, the drive from Key West across the beautiful water and string of cays, Broadway and South Beach before it was SoBe ... Celebrating our joys and working through our tough times. Such a joy to share life with someone so interested in it. Rest well, my friend - in the peace I know you are seeking.
To my friend, Jim - Your thoughtful orchestrating of the events honoring Iris' memory and in celebration of her life has been so beautiful. I am sure she is honored and proud.
My love to you both -
Ann Mott
January 23, 2008
Dear Jim,
I was so happy to have seen Iris and you this past summer in Rochester, it sure meant a lot to see you both again.
Please remember that the memories are there to keep those we love close to us forever.
Our deepest sympathy, Greg and Ann Mott
Grace DiPalma (Bottalico)
January 22, 2008
I learned of the sad news last week. Although it has been 40 years since high school days I still remember Iris with her friendly smiling face. My sincere sympathy to her husband & family.
Kathleen Quigley
January 21, 2008
Jim, I am still in shock even having attended the memorial service and re-visiting friends and Michelles family members. However I am grateful to have had the opportunity to see her again last fall and even then it felt like I had just seen her yesterday. She is one of a kind, a unique spirit, and I believe her spirit lives on around us - to me it is her gentle nature, her benevolent grace and her loving, kind smile and graciousness to all creatures great and small. There will never be another like her and we all share in your great loss.
Chris Evans
January 21, 2008
Iris lived up to her name. A beautiful flower in the color of her choice! Sometimes, yellow like the sun when she was happy, some times white as the innocent when she did nothing wrong, purple when she was bold and then some times blue when she tried not to tear from her pain. She will always be the flower in your heart Jim, and I believe the flower in the hearts of those she met. Her beauty and spirit lives on with every Iris I have planted in my garden. My new plants will be dedicated to her.
Chris Evans
January 21, 2008
Iris lived up to her name. A beautiful flower in the color of her choice! Sometimes, yellow like the sun, some times white as the innocent, some times blue when she tried not to tear from her pain. She will always be the flower in your heart Jim and I believe the flower in the hearts of those she met. Her beauty and spirit lives on with every Iris I have planted in my garden. My new plants will be dedicated to her.
Joe Hinchman
January 21, 2008
Jim,we are so saddened by Iris passing. Both of you are so much like family for us and Sara and CJ. We all have looked forward to your visits to Rochester and what exciting new experiences that would bring, or our trips to DC, for Iris's cooking and the trips to the Smithsonian. Such great times and we look forward to continuing these great visits.
We share your sorrow and pray for your peace, God Bless,
Joe,Carolyn,Sara and CJ
Sara Hinchman
January 21, 2008
Jim, I am truly sorry for your loss. Iris was an amazing woman and gave me the strength to be a strong woman. She has always been a great influence on my life and my career path. I am proud to say I knew someone like her. Her spirit and influence live on daily in much that I do. May God bless you in your time of sorrow and may peace find you soon.
Joe Hinchman
January 20, 2008
Jim, our good friend, I wish we could do more to ease the pain of losing Iris. For 35 years the two of you have been a cherished part of our lives and we will miss her very much. She also became like the crazy aunt everyone loves for our children Sara and CJ. When you would come to Rochester, it was like a combination of Santa and Mr Rogers for them. So much fun and good memories. We all miss her greatly.
Many Huggers send their regards and condolences also.
God Bless, Joe and Carolyn Hinchman, Sara and CJ.
Bill Miller
January 20, 2008
Jim - It is hard to express our sorrow for your loss. We will remember Iris' kindness to us and her fondness for Joey, as well as her love of gardening and research. And, we will think of her each time we see the neighborhood hawk that she found so fascinating. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Bill Marshall
January 19, 2008
When I received the news about Iris's sudden passing, I reacted with shock & disbelief . . . and tears. I couldn't believe it.
Iris was so full of life & when her name came up, it was only with the the thought of looking forward to the next time we would get together. The idea that we would never get together again brought on a sense of overwhelming sadness.
The good times were so much fun. Iris could always hold up her end of the conversation. Her intellect made conversations interesting & challenging while her wit brought laughter even if the conversation got feisty.
Iris was the sister-in-law I never had. She made sure we stayed in touch & that we got together regularly. She kept us close. She made us family.
Iris, I miss you. I miss your laugh. And I miss the fact that you could talk all night. Saveus a spot at the table.
Mary & Jason Clark
January 19, 2008
We were so saddened to learn of the loss of our beautiful cousin Iris...she was always so very full of life and joy! She introduced me to a side of my family that had been missing and I immediately saw so much of my mother and myself in her stories, her mannerisms, and her irreverent sense of humor. We will miss her so much and deeply mourn the times we would have enjoyed with her. We will, however, closely treasure the beautiful times we did share together. -Mary & Jason
I particularly loved Iris' stories and hearing of all her adventures - I will keep her spirit close to me as I pursue my adventures with the same zest & enthusiasm. I only hope my smile and laugh bring as much joy to others as hers did to me! - Mary
Jennifer Kravatz
January 19, 2008
Iris was one of a kind! Full of life - fun and energetic. Iris and Jim would visit us in CT at my mom and dad's house and bring her infectious laugh and gifts for all. Now that I have my own son she continued to make an effort to visit and give him fun toys and generous gifts. I will miss her loving spirit!!!
Gem Marshall
January 19, 2008
Iris would sweep into our lives with cats, secret salt and Jim, bringing good stories and laughs. She was generous in every way and our family will miss her terribly.
I treasured her as a friend and a Murhpy cousin- a very small group, which has been diminished by her loss. Now she gets to have some special time with Nanny.
Paul & Karen Engen
January 19, 2008
We remember fondly the times spent with Iris and Jim as an extended part of our family and are glad that we knew Iris; who had such a wonderful smile. She remains with us all in spirit. We share your grief.
Kenneth Henriksen
January 18, 2008
Jim - I was saddened to hear of Iris's passing and send fond wishes for comfort in this time of loss to you and your family. While our paths have not crossed many times over the years, many of my friends have relayed cherished memories of the times they have spent with you and Iris. From my memories of our times together, I hold keen memories of her wit, her laughter and her glowing warmth. She filled a room with her presence. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Lisa Rawson
January 18, 2008
I really don't know what to say in these sort of situations but I remember the good times Iris and I had together.
Two years ago we spent Thanksgiving in New York together and Iris was on a mission to find this perfume shop. We found the perfume shop and spent the rest of the afternoon shopping for cheese and flowers. We must have spent atleast an hour picking out the flowers to make our Thanksgiving center piece. It was a great afternoon spent in NYC, one I will never forget.
I will remeber Iris as a warm hearted classy woman. Always dressed to kill.
Her death is very unfortunate to all of us but I know god knows what he is doing. God bless you Iris.
Dr.Joseph A. Murphy
January 18, 2008
I am grateful for all the kind and loving responses that my big sister,Iris recieved from all her friends,i have met many of you when iris would bring her twin brothers(joseph and charles)along with her to the beach or upstate to Oneontain the summers.Iris will always be in our hearts and memories and will be missed.Thank you Jim for being such a loving husband to my sister.
Jim McGrath
January 17, 2008
Iris and I were married 33 years as of last August. I am gratified that some people I have never met but have heard of from Iris' stories over the years still remember her so fondly. that is no small comfort to me to read your memories. Thank you all.
Lori Mullin
January 16, 2008
It meant so much to have Iris in my life.
Jim, you were the love of hers.
Kathleen (Sheedy) Maizel
January 16, 2008
Dear Jim,
Please accept the heartfelt condolences from five of Iris's sorority sisters. She lives in our hearts as the laughter and light on the third floor of 27 Cedar Street. We all have such wonderful memories of that time with her. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Love in A,
Chicki, MP, Mason, Joan, Sheebie
Christina (Cuneo) Pickle
January 16, 2008
Jim and Family, I was so saddened to read about Iris. I clearly remember her from HS and remember how much fun she was. She was a friend to everyone. You and your family are in my heart, thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. My dad, Roy Cuneo, was saddened to hear about Iris when I told him. He is a retired history teacher from Lindy and he said he remembers her being, "a very bright girl". Please take care of yourself.
Carol Emmett Roberts
January 16, 2008
I am still in such shock over Iris' death, since I heard the sad news from Jim. Iris and I have been friends since college. We were roommates in the Arethusa sorority house.
She was always full of life, always loving, usually loud... and the smartest woman I have ever known. The world is a much duller place without you, my dear old friend. I will hold on to the memories of the wonderful times we had in Chatham.
I will always love you and miss you. Aloha.
Maureen (Bistyga) Meyer
January 15, 2008
Jim,
I have special memories of Iris because I was fortunate to share my high school and college years with her. In high school, Iris was the first of our group to have her license & a car, too! So, Iris spent many summer days & nights driving us all around town. I think we were good enough to buy her gas once in a while! And off she and I went to Oneonta and we became "sisters" when we joined Arethusa sorority. What fun we had! My biggest regret is not staying in touch with Iris. She's a special, fun loving person who I'll never forget. Jim, my thoughts and prayers are with you - I am so sorry.
Carol Maltese(DePalo)
January 15, 2008
To The Family:
I am so sorry for your loss, It is hard to find words that express the sorrow that is felt.You are in my thoughts and prayers. I will always remember her smile....
Marty Dragovich
January 15, 2008
I learned that Iris passed from Don Clark. Although I probably had not seen Iris since high school or shortly after, I will always remember her as probably my first official date when I took her to the freshman dance. She possessed a warm infectious smile, good sense of humor and was a good friend to many. I am saddened that she was taken from her family, friends and loved ones at such an early age. To her spouse and family, I truly hope that your fond memories will help ease the burden of her loss.
Rick Triola
January 14, 2008
Jim-so sorry to hear of your loss. I'm so thankful that we had a chance to get together on your visit to So Cal. Iris was as I always remembered-full of spirit! Been in touch with her brother Dr Joe, and wish you all my sincerest condolences.
Ellen Grimes (Calabrese)
January 14, 2008
So sorry for your loss-as it is a loss for all who knew Iris.She was so much fun in high school-girls leaders club-a long time ago but the memories live on.Bless you and your family.
beverly papps-skeffington
January 14, 2008
My memories of Iris are of a face full of mischief, smiling "Irish" eyes and much laughter. Praying that God will surround you with his loving arms and sustain you in this loss.
Bob Hoelzle
January 14, 2008
Jim, my prayers are with you and your family at this sad time. Iris will be in our hearts forever. Bob Hoelzle
Lois Gillen
January 14, 2008
Hi Jim! Although we have never met, I am so sorry for yourloss. Iris and I were classmates many years ago, yet I can still see her smiling face, as if it were yesterday.She was such a nice person!! My heart goes out to you. Know that many thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. May God keep you in His loving care, as you face each day. With sympathy - Lois Gillen . Long Island
Joanne Fiore-Powell
January 14, 2008
I was so sorry to hear about Iris.
We were in high school together and
though we lost contact I can still
see her smiling face and beatiful blue eyes. She seemed to be a free
spirit then. Please accept my
condolences.
barbara moore [blumberg]
January 14, 2008
Iris and I hung out in the same group - the collegiate s....we played sports together and spent alot of time having fun. She even got the spot I wanted on the basketball team...but I loved her anyway. I am a pastor and minister to people in grief. May God comfort you as He promises to do for all who mourn.
Irene Purins
January 14, 2008
I am very sorry for your loss. I remember Iris from High School, she was always so bubbly. My throughts are with you during this sad time.
Wayne Asbury
January 14, 2008
To the Family,
I first met Iris in 5th grade. We were classmates for many years and I always found Iris to be a most wonderful friend, full of energy and laughter. I will miss her. My heartfelt condolences to everyone who shares in her passing, but even more so, I wish to rejoice in a life that meant so much to so many.
Love,
Wayne
Michael Brescia
January 14, 2008
Nothing I can say will take the place of loosing your spouse.Memories and the life that we all share are all we have.I remember Iris from school,she was a kind person.
Tim McGuire
January 14, 2008
Jim.
Please accept my condolences. I remember Iris from high school as a happy and friendly person and I know your remeberences of her will be the same. God Bless.
Frank Nicholas
January 14, 2008
What a loss to us all,
so early in life..
Donald Clark
January 14, 2008
Jim, I am so sorry for your loss. I am an old classmate of Iris's and, although my memories of Iris are from many years ago, her smiling face and great personality will always remain a constant in my mind.
God bless you and guide you.
Vicki Leach
January 14, 2008
There are absolutley no words I have to comfort you - what a loss. Iris will always have a special place in my heart. She played a very important part in my life that I will never forget. May you find peace at this sad time. Time will heal...
Don Fowler
January 12, 2008
My heart aches for you, Jim. I hope that warm memories will find you soon.
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