Barbara Ann (Nolan) Murphy, 84, of Framingham passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Friday, July 9, 2021.  Barbara was the daughter of the late Joseph and Rita "Betty" (Wilson) Nolan.  She was the sister of the late Elinor J. (Nolan) Hall.  She was the wife of the late William (Bill) P. Murphy.

At age 16 Barbara worked for a cleaning store. During this time, she met Bill before he left for Korea.  She then left for Florida then moved to Baltimore and ultimately returned back to Massachusetts.  A chance meeting with a friend of Bill's led to Bill and Barbara reuniting.  Six months into their relationship Bill asked Barbara to marry him as they walked hand in hand down the street.  Barbara's reaction was "are you serious?" November 14, 1954 was their wedding day-needless to say Bill was serious.  Bill and Barbara were married for 40 years until his death on November 27, 1994.

Barbara worked for many years in different industries.  She loved helping people which ultimately led her to a career as a nurse's aide.  Barbara worked at the then known Bigelow Nursing Home for many years and often left in charge.  Barbara and Bill moved to Billerica where they then started a family and Barbara left her career.  Barbara dedicated her life to her family and friends.

Barbara was a very giving person, always willing to help those in need.  Barbara often volunteered for many different roles at her children's schools and taught religious education for a number of years. Barbara was a loyal friend to all.  She loved fiercely her family and friends especially her children and grandchildren whom she loved spending time with.  She devoted her life to caring for her disabled son who predeceased her.  Barbara loved cats, enjoyed reading, watching old movies, and the beach.  Her wish to visit Bermuda came true in 2015 when the entire family took a cruise.

Barbara is survived by her children-son James Murphy and his wife Jennifer of Marshfield and her daughter Karen (Murphy) Nicholas of Holliston.  She was also the mother of the late William (Billy) Murphy.  She was Nana to Marissa Murphy, Shaughnnaessey-Lynnea Nicholas and Jaegger-James Nicholas.  Barbara is also survived by her dear sister in law Claire Donnelly; many nieces and nephews; and many close relatives and friends.  The family would like to say thank you to Care Dimensions Hospice for all of their help and support over these past few weeks. They would especially like to thank Barbara's primary nurse Erin Van Ness for her care, compassion, support, and love.

Family and friends are invited to honor and remember Barbara's life by gathering for visiting hours at the John A. Matarese Funeral Home, 325 Main Street, Ashland, MA on Tuesday, July 13, 2021 from 4PM-7PM.  A funeral mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 14, 2021 at 10 AM at Saint Linus Church, 119 Hartford Street, Natick, MA.  Interment will follow at Edgell Grove Cemetery, Grove Street, Framingham, MA.

In lieu of flowers donations in her memory may be made to the American Lung Association, 1661 Worcester Road, Unit 301, Framingham, MA 01701.