Joan Christine Murphy, better known as Chris or Chrissy passed away peacefully at her beloved home on Higley Flow December 24, 2011 surrounded by loved ones. She was 60 years old. She leaves behind Jim, her devoted life partner for 26 years, a sister in-law Cindy Murphy and her children Ryan and Gabe, cousins Becky and Dady, and Aunt Rosemary, Jim's sister Carol, her son Stewart and his wife Lisa, and their son Becket, Aunt Betty, Heidi-Ho and Jake, dear friends, colleagues and hundreds whose lives have been enriched and influenced by her wisdom, knowledge, integrity, energy, enthusiasm, and absolute love of life.
Born December 26, 1950 in Chicago, Chrissy was raised in Phoenix, Arizona where she earned her HS diploma. Then she earned a Bachelor's Degree from Oklahoma University and Master's Degree from Nova Southeastern University.
Her passion for early childhood education led her to that wonderful "Headstart" program as education coordinator for St. Lawrence County until she retired after 23 years. Chrissy was a doer. She gave 110% to everything. Jim had to share her with the rest of the world. She kept herself informed, never assuming anything, never,
She always gave the benefit of doubt and sought the truth, always!
She wasn't afraid to speak out to right a wrong, often encountering closed minds, but she was heard.
She was impeccably honest and was intolerant of those who were not.
She was always positive to the end.
She was caring and sensitive, thinking of others above herself.
People like Chrissy are rare, but she somehow surrounded herself with and attracted those possessing her high standards. Those who really knew her will say it was a privilege to have been a friend or colleague or loved one or an acquaintance.
She loved Jim, where she lived, the Racquette River Corridor, the Adirondacks, Country Days with Cindy, crafting, gardening, her job, Nature, camping, paddling with friends, her beloved Heidi-Ho and Jake, all living things, and much more. She loved the "Round The Islands" Canoe Race. She was know for her prowess and winning ways over the years, but she simply loved the fun and the people. Thanks Ed and Judy!
She will be missed but never forgotten, a tribute to the extraordinary person she was/is.
Thanks to all the prayers, candles and the expressions of love shown for this exceptional lady. Goodbye Chrissy.
A celebration of her life will be held at a future date and will be announced.
If anyone would like to do something for Chrissy please think of the very special people at Hospice and Palliative Care of the St. Lawrence Valley (6805 USH 11 Potsdam, NY 13676) or The Potsdam Humane Society (17 Madrid Avenue Potsdam, NY 13676) and give of your time or donate in her memory. Online condolences can be sent @www.garnerfh.com.
