Helena Mary (Kelleher) Murphy, 87, a longtime resident of Framingham, died Wednesday, January 31, 2026 after a period of declining health. Born in Blarney, Co. Cork, Ireland, she was the daughter of the late Bartholomew & Mary (O’Connor) Kelleher, and the beloved wife of the late Lawrence P. Murphy.
Helena was raised and educated in the Village of Court Brack, and graduated form Skerrys College in Cork, Ireland. An entrepreneur she started a store with the help of her father at a young age. With just six shillings in her pocket, she left Ireland at the age of 20 and flew to Boston. She stayed with her uncle for a bit before moving into her first apartment in Cambridge. She worked for Col Hersee in Boston.
Helena met the love of her life, Lawrence while ballroom dancing in Boston and it was love at first sight. Together they raised three children, and enjoyed 47 years of marriage. In her younger days, Helena enjoyed playing camogie, horseback riding, and ball room dancing. An avid reader, she was extremely intelligent, caring, had a quick whit, and was kind and caring to all she met.
Helena was selfless, particularly when it came to her family. She was a spectacular cook, known for her chicken wings and Irish bread. She had a special place in her heart for Marshfield where she summered for over 50 years. Helena was a tremendous source of strength and inspiration.
Helena is survived by her children, Patrick Murphy & his wife Paula of Scituate, Laurence Murphy of Waltham, and Marian Murphy of Framingham, and her grandchildren, Sara Murphy of Weymouth, and John Murphy of Scituate.
Family and friends are invited to honor and remember Helena’s life by gathering for a time of visitation in the McCarthy, McKinney & Lawler Funeral Home, 11 Lincoln St. Framingham on Saturday, February 7th from 9-10:30AM. Her Funeral Mass will follow in St. Stephen Church, 251 Concord St. Framingham at 11 o’clock. Interment will be private.
To share a memory with the Murphy Family, kindly visit www.mccarthyfh.com
Norton, McKinney & Lawler Funeral Home