Claire Anita Murphy, age 88. With profound sadness we would like to announce the peaceful passing of Claire Anita Murphy, surrounded by her loving family at home on September 18, 2022.

Born in New Glasgow on August 8, 1934, she lived most of her life in Thorburn where she raised her family. Claire was a daughter of the late Bill and Agnes (MacDonald) MacGillivray. 

Claire was known for her contagious smile, giving nature and her effervescent personality which would light up every room.  She was most proud of her children and grandchildren and was happiest when surrounded by family, extended family and friends.  

Claire spent her early years working at Sobeys, caring for her family and many others. She worked as a mail helper until the age of 82. She took part in the Home and School and was a member of the Catholic Women’s League for over 50 years. 

She loved card parties, her own birthday party, Bingo and Thursday night TV Bingo parties where everyone was welcome in her home (the more the merrier!)

She was predeceased by her husband, Mike Murphy; a son in infancy; two nephews, Bert Grice and Daniel MacGillivray; nieces, Joan Hughes, Irene MacGillivray, Katrina Wilcox and Anita MacGillivray; three sisters, Irene Adams, Helen MacGillivray and Mary Lou Delorey; two brothers, Lawrence MacGillivray and Donnie MacGillivray; and many aunts, nieces and cousins. She was the last surviving member of her family. 

She is survived by her daughter, Agnes (Paul) Buell, their 3 children, Holly, Kyle, Riley; her sons, Stephen (Lori) Murphy; and Raymond (Rhonda) Murphy, their daughter Katie; her special God child, Angie (Derek) Landry, and their children Claire and Sean. 

She will be remembered fondly by her many nieces and nephews and their extended families.  

Visitation 2-4 and 7-9 pm Wednesday, in the R.H. Porter Funeral Home, 55 Almont Ave., New Glasgow. Funeral service 11 am Thursday, in the R.H. Porter Funeral Home, with Fr. Colin MacKinnon officiating. Burial in St. Ann’s Cemetery, Thorburn. 

"You may be gone from my sight but you are never gone from my heart."