Obituary of Margaret Murphy

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear mother Margaret Murphy. She died suddenly on December 29th, 2023. She leaves behind her brother Robert (Dianne), her three children Roger (Louise), Julie and Raymond (Carrie), along with grandchildren Jeremy, Jacob, Alia, Emma Margaret, Kate and Emma Elizabeth. She was predeceased by her parents Fred and Mary DeLong, her first husband Eric Wurdemann and her second husband William Murphy.

Margaret grew up in West Toronto and Etobicoke. She spent many happy summers with family in Southern New Brunswick. She graduated from Queens University (English/1963). She was a fiercely independent woman and overcame many obstacles in her life. She worked as an employment counselor at Canada Manpower for 30 years. She then taught ESL privately and in more formal settings for 15 years.

Margaret enjoyed hosting students from other countries in her home, in Toronto, Vancouver and most recently in Windsor. Some of the students became friends with whom she kept in touch, even traveling as far as Japan to attend a wedding.

Margaret moved to Windsor in 2005 where she helped her son Roger realize his dream of opening a Book Shop. Many patrons will remember her lively presence behind the counter at Juniper Books. As someone who read voraciously and widely her whole life, Margaret was in her element.

Margaret was a most loving and devoted parent and grandparent and will be remembered by her many friends and relatives for her indomitable spirit and her kindness and generosity.

Donations can be made in her name to the Salvation Army. As she wished there will be no service, but the family invites Margaret’s friends to join us for an informal gathering at Juniper Books in Windsor on Friday, January 26th from 7-9pm.