Alexis 'Darlene' Murphy

October 9, 1953 - March 23, 2022

Alexis “Darlene” Murphy, 68 Howie Center With profound sadness, we the family of Darlene Murphy, announce her passing on March 23rd, 2022, after a long-fought battle with a rare form of cancer. Born and raised in Glace Bay, she was the oldest daughter of the late Gerald and Jean Shaw. Mom worked as an LPN for 39 years, first at St. Joseph’s Community Hospital in Glace Bay, and then spending most of her career at Braemore Home before retiring in 2013. Mom enjoyed raising her family in Big Pond with many days spent at the beach in summer and enjoying the sunsets through her picture window. In her younger years, she spent much of her free time in Margaree snowmobiling, fishing, and enjoying time with her family. Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her son Breton in 2017; we take comfort in knowing they are now reunited. Mom leaves behind her loving daughters, Bobbi Jean (Shaun), Geralyn (Aaron), and daughter-in-law, Mary Jane; her grandchildren, James (Julie), Katie, as well as Hannah (Brannon) and Ryan whom she helped raise; her siblings, Jeri MacNeil (Reggie), Grant Shaw (Maria), and Krista Gallant (Shane) with whom she remained close, along with several nieces and nephews. Mom is also survived by our dad, Bob, who in the last few years became a close friend to her and a wonderful support during her recent illness. Lastly, Mom left behind her “babies” Stella and Sophie who will miss her dearly. As per Mom’s wishes, there will be a private family service. An open-house celebration of Mom’s life with take place on Saturday, March 26th from 4-6 p.m. at 153 Heathview Drive, Coxheath. Donations in her memory can be made to the Nova Scotia SPCA – Cape Breton Shelter or the An Cala Palliative Care Unit of the Cape Breton Regional Hospital. Mom, also known as Grammy, devoted her life to caring for others whether it be cooking, baking, or caring for her grandchildren who were her absolute pride and joy. Mom worked hard her entire life – as a nurse, for her family, and fighting her illness. Although those of us left behind are heartbroken, we find peace in knowing she has earned her well-deserved rest.