Mary Florence (McKeon) Murphy

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Murphy, Mary Florence (McKeon) of Edina, MN and Naples, FL died peacefully on August 9, 2012. Preceded in death by her parents. Dr. Joseph and Grace McKeon, and brother, James McKeon. Born on July 26, 1928, Mary had fond memories of her early childhood in Montgomery, MN. Later moving to Mpls, she graduated from Washburn HS, class of 1946. Mary attended the University of Minnesota, where she made many lifelong friends, and spent her time serving as President of Kappa Alpha Theta, modeling for Dayton's Dept Store, and meeting her future beloved husband, Bill. In 1950 she earned a Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences, and in 1951 she married "the life of the party" William JD Murphy, who kept her laughing for 61 years. Together they raised six children, spending their summers on Sugar Lake and taking many family ski trips. Mary's devotion to her family was unmatched, and they returned that love with tender care in her final years after she suffered severe strokes. Mary was truly dependable, loving her friends in their Sandbag golf group, Bridgeclub and so many others. A member of Royal Poinsianna CC in Naples and a 40-year member of Interlachen Country Club, she enjoyed both golf and tennis. She was a voracious reader, and dedicated volunteer to multiple causes. She'd served as a volunteer social worker for the Mpls. school system, and was a long-time guild member and wedding coordinator at St Patrick's Church. Co-owner of Business Forms & Systems, Inc. with her husband, Bill, he lovingly referred to her as Vice President in Charge of the President, a role she cherished for 61 years. Mary will live on in the hearts of her loving family: her husband, Bill; her children, Jim (Janet), Molly, David, Martha (Kelly), Annie (Pat) Olk, Tom (Amy); and grandchildren, Tommy Olk, Megan Olk, Katie Murphy and Abby Murphy; her sister and brother-in- law, Tricia and Dr. S. Robert Maxeiner, nieces, nephews and cousins. They'll remember her bright welcoming smile, and that incredible sense she gave you that you were valued, accepted and loved. A memorial mass will be held Friday, Aug. 17, at 11 AM, with visitation one hour prior at Church of St Patrick, Edina. Visitation also Thursday, Aug. 16, 4-7 PM at Washbum-McReavy Edina Chapel. Memorials preferred, to N.C. Little Hospice, Church of St Patrick Edina, or donor's choice. Washburn-McReavy.com Edina Chapel 952-920-3996 West 50th St. & Hwy 100

Published on August 12, 2012