Worcester – Barbara L. (Devine) Murphy, 88, lifelong resident of Worcester, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 5, 2022, in her home surrounded by family care providers, after a period of declining health.
Barbara was predeceased by her husband George F. Murphy; former husband Herbert D. Dyson; son Paul F. (Wally) Dyson; loving parents John and Marie-Louise (Bedard) Devine; and brother Leonard J. Devine. She leaves a sister, Patricia A. Santimore of Grafton;
a daughter, Ann Marie Gaffney; four sons, John H. Dyson and his wife Mary Beth; Daniel J. Dyson, David A. Dyson and his partner Carlene Tivnan; and Barry C. Dyson, all of Worcester. Affectionately Mémère to her grandchildren, she leaves Katie Chase, Sara, Corey, and David Dyson, Jennifer Shepard, Melissa Gaffney Amorin, and Kevin Gaffney; and six great grandchildren; nieces and cousins.
Barbara proudly attended Woodland Street Preparatory Academy, and graduated from South High School. Her first career as a telephone operator for the former New England Telephone Company was resumed at Elder Services of Worcester Area when her children were raised. There she was promoted to case manager, successfully supporting elders to remain in their own homes. In her waning years she was able to fulfill that goal for herself with the support of dedicated caregivers and services. Barbara was also a longtime member of Our Lady of the Angels Church.
Barbara had over thirty years of fun in the sun at Old Orchard Beach, ME, and travelled widely with George on excursions with the Retired Men’s Club of Greendale. She celebrated her French heritage on New Year’s Day with a several pots of ragoût, serving fortunate family and friends who were wished Bonne année with two kisses, one on each cheek; while her Irish eyes smiled during annual trips to the Irish Village and every day during the month of March. She became an oil painting enthusiast, spending hours with friends honing her techniques at the studio of Ann Briggs, bestowing cherished framed art on family.
Barbara’s funeral will be held on Thursday, September 8 from the Alfred Roy & Sons Funeral Home 12 Hammond Street Worcester with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM in Our Lady of the Angels Church 1222 Main St. A private burial will take place at later date in Saint John’s Cemetery, Worcester. Calling hours will be held from 9 to 10:30 AM before the funeral mass in the funeral home. A contribution in memory of Barbara may be made to Our Lady of the Angels Church 1222 Main St. Worcester, MA 01603.
To share a memory of Barbara or to sign her online guestbook, please visit www.Royfuneral.com
