Obituary of Ethel B. Murphy

Ethel B. (Perry) Murphy, of Woburn, passed away on Wednesday evening, January 7, 2026 at the age of 102. 

Born in Stag Harbor, Newfoundland, Canada, she was one of three daughters of the late Caleb, and the late Bessie (Skinner) Perry.

She was the beloved wife of the late John J. Murphy, Major, U.S. Army (Ret.) who passed away in 2021 with whom she shared more than 74 years of marriage. They settled in Woburn where they raised their family and were longtime residents. They retired to Ellenton Florida for several years before moving to Boxford to be closer to family.  After John’s passing, Ethel came back to Woburn, where she enjoyed her last 5 years as a resident of New Horizons at Choate.

Ethel was loved by all who knew her and especially by her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She raised her family in a self-sacrificing way and taught by example how to be thoughtful, caring and compassionate. She always put the needs of others before her own. The simple life she lived revealed her heart to love one another and to be good to others.

Ethel is survived by three sons, James K. Murphy and his wife Ann of Burlington, Robert B. Murphy and his wife Gayle of Boxford, and John D. Murphy of Newton; and two daughters, Maureen L (Murphy) Love and her husband John of Abingdon MD, and Pamela J. Murphy of Melrose.  Ethel was the loving grandmother to nine Grandchildren: Danny & Jeanne, Jessica & Rebecca, Shannon & Brian, Michael & Nicole, and Kerby.  She also adored her 21 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild.  Ethel was predeceased by her two sisters, the late Pearl Russell, and the late Dorothy Ambrose.

Visiting hours will be at the Arthur P. Graham Funeral Home, 3 Arlington Rd., Woburn on Monday, January 12 from 9:30-11:00 am, followed by a funeral service at the funeral home at 11:00 am.  Burial will take place following the service on Monday at the Mount Vernon Cemetery, 11 Mount Vernon Rd., Boxford

Contributions in Ethel’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (www.stjude.org)