NIANTIC: Laura Murphy passed away peacefully on March 26, 2023 after a long illness. She was surrounded by family and caretakers at the Bride Brook Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Niantic, CT which had been her loving home for nine years. She was a beloved daughter of the late Gerald and Muriel Murphy of Mystic. a loving sister, and friend, and she was Mick Jagger’s #1 fan.
Laurie was born on October 26, 1960 in New London, CT, the youngest of four siblings. A bright, curious child, she was a voracious reader and serious about her studies. A passion for cycling brought out her adventurous side, never missing a chance to hop on her bike and feel the breeze in her hair. At home she was known as the sweet, gentle, and fiercely loyal youngest sister whose intelligence and curiosity would take her far.
At the age of 15, Laurie was diagnosed with an aggressive form of multiple sclerosis. A long battle had begun, and Laurie ultimately lost her independence to the disease. As her needs evolved, so too did her living arrangements, and her family is grateful to those dedicated nurses, physicians, aides, and caretakers who nurtured and advocated for Laurie when she was under their care.
Laurie’s family and loved ones remain awed by the incomprehensible strength it must have taken for her to endure the progressive challenges and setbacks of her illness. Throughout it all, Laurie held fast to who she was and the things she loved. She was famous for her big, bright smile and easy sense of humor, as well as her love of color, cats, and classic rock. Her rooms were always decorated to the nines — strung-up twinkle lights and stick-on stars glowing on the ceiling; painted wooden parrots swinging from the window frame and enough stuffed animals to form a proper zoo; technicolor mobiles that looked plucked from a funky art installation. Last but not least, the headlining piece: a life-size cardboard cutout of her idol, Mick Jagger, that accompanied her wherever she went. At the center of this bedazzled orbit was Laurie. Laurie, who loved her music and smiled big and often. Laurie, who taught us how to be brave.
Laurie’s family would like to thank all of the caregivers who made an impact on Laurie’s life, including and especially Julie Miller, who provided 23 years of dedicated care and companionship . Dr. Goldberg,Dr. Donka .and the excellent staff who made her life at BB, the best and happiest of all her nursing home experiences. Also Hartford Hospice Health Care for the skill and kindness in end of life care your team delivered .
She is survived by her siblings Gerald Murphy Jr.of New Bern, North Carolina;Elene Desillier of Old Lyme,; and Jessica Geervliet of Ivoryton.