Barbara J. Murphy

EAST HERKIMER - Barbara J. Murphy, age 85, of East Herkimer, New York, passed away peacefully on June 10, 2026, with her family and close friend Nan Grindle at her side.

She was born on January 14, 1941, in Schenectady, New York, the daughter of the late Robert and Mary (Kozlowski) MacNeill. Barbara attended and graduated from llion High School and went on to graduate from the Crouse School of Nursing in Syracuse, New York.

On August 13, 1964, Barbara was united in marriage to Gerald Murphy at Annunciation Church in llion. She devoted her career to caring for others as a registered nurse, first at lion Hospital and later with the Herkimer County Department of Corrections.

Barbara was active with the East Herkimer Fire Department and the East Herkimer Fish and Game Club. She enjoyed meeting with her former coworkers for lunch as well as tending her flower gardens and traveling to visit lighthouses. Barb and her son Michael often went out for lunch and to visit relatives. She gave her time to her community through election committee and voter registration efforts. Following her retirement, she also volunteered with Bassett Healthcare. She was a lifelong fan of the NY Yankees as well as the NY Giants.

Barb was treasured and loved by her family. She is survived by her husband, Gerald; her children, Michael Murphy, Brian Murphy and Joanne; her beloved grandchildren, Briana and Hunter. She is also survived by her siblings, Dr. Deborah MacNeill and Robert MacNeill; her in-laws, Sandra and Dan DeForrest; as well as various nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her brother-in-law, Lorin Murphy Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Enea Family Funeral Home, 220 North Washington Street, Herkimer, New York. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Calling hours will be held at the funeral home on Monday evening, June 15, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

The family is grateful to the nurses and doctors at Wynn Hospital, as well as Dr. Jackson, for the care and compassion shown to Barbara and her family during this difficult time.

Barbara's funeral arrangements have been entrusted to The Enea Family Funeral Home, Herkimer, New York. (315) 866-1011. The obituary may be viewed on the funeral home website at www.eneafamily.com on the Internet.

I lieu of flowers the family requests that any donations be made to the East Herkimer Fish and Game Club or the East Herkimer Volunteer Fire Dept.