Diane Helen Murphy

Diane Helen Murphy, a beacon of gentle kindness and unwavering love, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2025, at the age of 79, in Hartford, CT. Born on May 14, 1945, in Brooklyn, NY, she was predeceased by her parents Frank & Betty Shimaitis.
Diane's legacy is lovingly cherished by her devoted husband of 56 years, Richard "Dick" Murphy, her adoring daughters, Dawn Murphy, her husband Eric Kuligowski and Donna Bard, her husband Harold Bard and his daughter Holly Bard and not to be forgotten her beloved granddaughter Kelsey Kuligowski. Diane will also be dearly missed by her sister, Gail Shimaitis, her spouse Pat Cecere, along with brother-in-law Robert Murphy, his wife Phyllis Murphy, who was like a sister to her as well as Ken Gessay, brother-in-law, and her nephew Scott Gessay for whom she was godmother. Sadly Diane was predeceased by her sister Lynn Gessay, whom she missed very much.
Diane was a proud graduate of Manchester High School. As a two-time breast cancer survivor, she inspired many with her courage and resilience. While Diane's first love was being a mom, after raising her daughters, her passion for young children resulted in a cherished role in daycare, where she dedicated many years to caring for infants with a gentle touch and a warm smile.
The birth of her granddaughter, Kelsey, was a source of immense joy for Diane, and she reveled in every opportunity to be present in her life, celebrating each milestone with pride and enthusiasm. Diane's presence was a constant at her daughters' and granddaughter's sporting events, where she cheered with a passion that matched her love for the UCONN Huskies basketball teams and the Boston Red Sox. Baseball was her true love and she eagerly awaited the little league world series each August.
Diane's interests extended beyond the sports arena. She had a fascination with lighthouses, with the Nubble Light House in Maine holding a special place in her heart. This interest paired perfectly with her love of lobster, and she relished the trips to Maine with Dick where she could indulge in both.
Those who knew Diane best would describe her as loving, kind, and gentle. She approached life with a soft-spoken grace and a heart full of compassion. Her ability to listen, support, and care for others left an indelible mark on the lives she touched. Diane's love for her family was the cornerstone of her existence; the unwavering support and joy she provided will be deeply missed but never forgotten. The memories she created will now be treasures held close to the hearts of everyone that loved her and will forever remain with those that had the privilege of knowing her.
Diane's family will welcome guests for Calling Hours on Friday, March 7, 2025 from 2PM to 4PM at Holmes Watkins Funeral Home, 400 Main Street, Manchester, CT 06040. Please consider making donations in Diane's name to the American Breast Cancer Foundation ( https://donate.cancer.org ). To leave on-line condolences for the family, please visit www.holmesweatkins.com