Mary Jane Murphy (Martin)

It is with great sadness that the family of Mary Jane Murphy announces her passing on August 28, 2025, at Fairvern Long Term Care.
After struggling with ongoing health conditions for many years, Jane lost the fight after a diagnosis of cancer that she could not survive.

Born in Orillia, Ontario, on February 16, 1940, to Clarence and Jennie Martin (Boothby).
The oldest of five children, Jane was often a caregiver to her siblings in their younger years. Over the years, they continued to come together in celebrations and sadness.

Children, nieces, nephews, then grandchildren and great-grandchildren were almost always a big part of the gatherings. Jane would always look forward to those moments in time spent with those she loved.

As a young teenager, she delivered the Toronto Star newspaper to over 100 people in the "west end" of Huntsville.
She worked at Bangor Lodge in Bracebridge, Griffon Lodge, and at Billy Bear—mostly as summer jobs. She worked for Mel Edwards, running the snack bar at the bowling alley.

She began her own family at a young age, having three children of her own: Velma, Charles, and Gerry. A third daughter, Vivian, came into her family when she met and later married her husband (predeceased), Albion Murphy.

A stay-at-home mom, Jane would at times take on the role of babysitter for family when asked. She would later include a few "after-school" kids while they waited for their parents to return from work.

She enjoyed picnics with her young family and close friends, square dances at the "Orange Hall," and Christmas concerts at the "United Church Hall."
She loved the Centennial '67 parade and events of the day.

She was "Brown Owl," hosting the Brownie meetings after school one day a week in the basement of her home. She was involved as well with the Girl Guides and the Boy Scouts, as her children were part of these organizations.

Later, the community of Novar held what began as "The Strawberry Festival," then became the "Novar Fun Fest." Jane was part of the organizing and often took a role as a host at some of the many bake sale tables. She could often be found helping with the kids’ games.

She was a longtime member of the Novar Chapter of the U.C.W. She worked at Mama Lucci's Pizzeria, which was located in the then just newly built Novar Mall.

She enjoyed times spent with friends and family and would be there with a helping hand or just to lend an ear. She was almost always there serving those in the community as they mourned the loss of one of their own.

There were many things, big and small, good and bad, that entered into her everyday life. And like most of us do, she got through it all as best she could.

To most, her life would seem quite unremarkable, but to her, her family was her achievement.

Jane's surviving siblings are her sisters, Connie Skinner and Beryl (Bob) Green.
Predeceased by brothers Edward "Ted" Martin (Lee) and John Martin.

For those at Fairvern who, over the years, became her friends and extended family—while she maintained her independence for as long as possible, and for the times she did not make that easy—“The Family” thanks you. For those who were part of her last passing days, giving care with dignity and respect, “The Family” expresses its collective sincere gratitude. You made the way easier for her!

To Dr. O'Halloran—again, thank you. Your willingness to answer many questions and share your knowledge, no matter the subject of discussion, during a difficult time was invaluable.

Thank you to those at the Huntsville Hospital—in particular, the staff of the Blood Transfusion Clinic, and the E.R. staff when they were needed.

To The Mitchell Funeral Home: the professionalism, sprinkled with humor, was very much appreciated, lending an air of ease at a difficult time. You have served our family well for a second time, and for that we sincerely thank you.

Thanks also go out to Family Place Restaurant for providing the space and personable, efficient staff, allowing Jane's family to gather again. The last time we were there was for her 80th birthday, in February 2020.

She will be missed and fondly remembered by her family and friends.
A small, family-attended burial was held in the St. Andrews United Cemetery, Novar, on September 3, 2025.

GOD SAW YOU GETTING TIRED

God saw you getting tired,
When a cure was not to be.
So He wrapped His arms around you,
And whispered, "Come to me."

You didn't deserve what you went through,
So He gave you rest.
God's garden must be beautiful,
He only takes the best.

And when I saw you sleeping,
So peaceful and free from pain,
I could not wish you back
To suffer that again.

Anonymous