Obituary of Claire Holmes Murphy

Claire Holmes Murphy, 85, passed away peacefully at Homewood on July 1, 2017. Claire was the middle of five children born to Dorothy Grant Holmes and George Holmes. Born in Manchester, CT, she and her siblings (Dolores, Elaine, Kaye and George) grew up in Middletown, CT. Claire met her husband Paul on a blind date. They married on New Year's Day in 1954. They bought their first home in Millington, NJ where they raised three children—Kim, Judy and Brian—encouraging them in their interests of art, horses, and skateboarding. She also made sure they had good table manners. Claire and Paul built their dream house in Chester, NJ where they lived for 30 years. During that time Claire was a dedicated volunteer for the Welkind Rehabilitation Hospital. A great joy in Claire's life was her family, especially Brian's marriage to Cindy, the birth of granddaughter Nairika, and spending summers with Paul in the Adirondack Mountains. Claire loved hearing the latest news of her many, nieces and nephews and their children. She enjoyed shopping and supporting her favorite charities. All who loved her dearly will never forget her quiet humor, kindness and generous nature. The family is holding a private service in Lake Placid, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Claire's memory to Hospice of Frederick Co. Maryland. Relatives and friends are invited to share a memory or leave condolences at www.mbclarkfuneralhome.com .