1935 - 2026
Joan was born October 27, 1935, in Lawrence, Massachusetts, the daughter of the late William and Teresa (McMorrow) Donovan. She pursued higher education at Merrimack College, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology, and began her professional life as a science teacher.
It was during her early adult years that she met Charles J. Murphy, and they were married on April 30, 1960. Together, they settled in Hudson, Massachusetts, where they lovingly raised their three daughters, Marybeth, Tara, and Colleen.
While raising her family, Joan maintained a full and active life. She enjoyed bowling, card playing, puzzles, camping, and serving as a Girl Scout leader, embracing both community involvement and family-centered activities. Later, she returned to the workforce and built a successful career in the insurance industry, working first at Amica Insurance Company and later concluding her career at the Massachusetts Auto Rating Bureau.
In retirement, Joan fully embraced travel and time with loved ones. She enjoyed traveling the world with her husband, children, and grandchildren, visiting destinations including the Caribbean, Alaska, and Europe. She held a special fondness for many trips to the Outer Banks of North Carolina with friends and family, a place filled with treasured memories.
In addition to her husband, Joan is survived by two daughters, Tara Andrews (William) of Hudson, Massachusetts, and Colleen Murphy-Lacroix (Raymond) of Mendon; her daughter-in-law, Karen Austin; six grandchildren, Katelyn Andrews, Catherine Dunleavey (Michael), Michael Andrews, Nicole Lacroix, Daniele Noke (Patrick); and two great-grandchildren, Harper and Riley Dunleavey. She also leaves behind many cherished nieces and nephews.
Joan was predeceased by her six siblings, Mary Margaret McDonough, Geraldine Marie O’Connor, Rita Marion Donovan, Dorothy A. O’Connor, William D. Donovan, and Carol Ann Driscoll, as well as her beloved daughter, Marybeth T. Murphy. Hers was a life well lived.
Visiting hours will be held Friday, January 30, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the BUMA-SARGEANT Funeral Home, 42 Congress Street, Milford, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 p.m.
Burial will be private. In accordance with her family’s wishes, her ashes will be spread at the Outer Banks of North Carolina, where she will rest beside her daughter Marybeth.
