Rev. Joanne M. Murphy, 82, of Toms River passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 18, 2020 at her home. Reverend Murphy retired 4 years as Pastor of the Unity by the Shore Church in Neptune City. Previously, she worked in pastoral care at the Center for Hope Hospice in Union County. She was a graduate of St. Patrick’s High School in Elizabeth and received a bachelor’s degree in humanity from Kean University in Union.
Born and raised in Elizabeth, she lived in Edison and Wall before moving to Toms River 17 years ago.
Pastor Murphy was predeceased by two sons, Matthew Banner and Kyle Murphy; and by her parents, James and Helen Gilligan.
Surviving is her loving husband of 33 years, George Donald Murphy; sons, Brian Murphy and his wife, Linda of Hillsborough, CA and Scott M. Murphy and his wife, Susan of Voorhees; brother, James Gilligan and his wife, Cathy of Linden; sister; Sr. Marie Gilligan , Sisters of Charity, of West Orange; five grandchildren, Ian and his wife, Amanda, Grant, Morgan, Meghan and Shannon; a great grandson, Declan; and her beloved dog, Bailey.
Visitation will be on Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9pm at the O’Brien Funeral Home, 2028 Hwy 35, Wall. A funeral service will be conducted at 8:30pm in the funeral home. Final interment will be private. Donations may be made in her name to the Unity by the Shore Church, 3508 Asbury Ave., Neptune City, NJ 07753.