Darlene A. Murphy, 59, of Mansfield, CT passed away unexpectedly and peacefully in Westerly, RI on August 30, 2024. She was born on March 27, 1965 in Windham, CT to her parents Luc & Pam Loranger. She graduated Windham High School in 1983, and then graduated from Manchester Community College in 1985. On September 13, 1986, Darlene married the love of her life, Doug Murphy Jr. and together they raised two beautiful children, Douglas III and Kaitlyn.
Over her career of nearly 40 years, Darlene worked as an administrative professional at several schools including; Windham High, E.O. Smith High, Southeast Elementary, and most recently Mansfield Elementary. She was a passionate and caring person who brought light and love to these schools and communities. She made everyone feel welcomed and worked hard to ensure families and educators were always supported.
Darlene was known for her beautiful smile, contagious laugh, and kind heart. She loved butterflies, Christmas, Celine Dion, daytime soap operas, dogs (especially Harley and Brooke), and she enjoyed a green iced tea from Dunkin every day.
Darlene’s happy place was the beach. Especially in Westerly, RI at her beach house with her family where they shared many special memories. Darlene was most happy when she had sand between her toes and her family by her side. A few years ago, fueled by her creativity, Darlene started her own business, “Designs by Darlene,” where she created original resin art and decorative pieces inspired by her love of the beach.
Darlene’s love and legacy will live on through her husband of 38 years, Doug Murphy Jr., her son Douglas Murphy III (partner Jaime Ontiveros), her daughter Kaitlyn Murphy, her parents Luc & Pam Loranger, and her many beloved family members, friends, and colleagues.
In lieu of flowers, we invite anyone who wishes to show their support by sharing a favorite memory and by giving to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, an organization that Darlene loved and supported each year.
St. Jude is leading the way the world understands, treats, and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Your generous donation and loving thoughts are a light of hope to St. Jude children and their families.