Jean Maria Murphy

Jean Maria (Reader) Murphy, 75, beloved wife of Mark Alan Murphy, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 18, 2025, at St. Luke's Hospice in Bethlehem. Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Raymond and Edith Reader and Doris (Lindenbaum) and Francis Chappel. Jean was a devoted and loving wife, mother, Nana and friend. Family was the center of her universe. She also loved all animals, especially her pets. Jean had many creative, artistic talents including embroidery, crocheting and had a custom card business. Jean also loved gardening, growing, and caring for her flowers. She was a long-time member of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. She also enjoyed spending time with her lifelong girlfriends, attending card making classes, reading, watching movies and was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan. Jean was an incredible friend, touching the lives of many with a heart full of compassion, kindness and generosity. Surviving along with her husband, Mark, are her children Jason Rutherford, husband of Rebecca; James Rutherford, husband of Isabella; and Jocelyn Berg; siblings Raymond Reader, Eric Schiffler, Ed Schiffler, and Elaine Branch; grandchildren James, Victoria, Ryan, Gavin, Cassidy, and Johnny; and her beloved cats Patches, Socks, and Whiskers. Jean was deeply loved and will be forever missed. Services will be held privately by the family at this time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to ASPCA in Jean's name.