Peter Barry Murphy

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Peter Barry Murphy, husband of the late Sheila (Foran), on May 27, 2023 at the age of 74.

Born in Newcastle, he was the son of the late Henry and Mary (Connolly) Murphy.

Peter is survived by his daughter Alicia, his two grandchildren Elliott and Catey who were his pride and joy, and their father Travis.   His brothers Paul (Charlene) of Lantz, NS, Morrissy of Dartmouth, NS, and Kenny (Shelley) of Cochrane AB; his sisters Anne Jardine (John) of Miramichi, and Mary Laura MacLean (Roy) of Miramichi; brother-in-law Al Belliveau of Greenwood, NS; cousins Mary Catherine Allison and John Hare both of Miramichi; mother-in-law Winnifred Foran; his brother-in-laws and sister-in laws from the Foran family and many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents and wife Sheila, he was predeceased by his grandson Gabriel; brothers Billy, Eugene, and Jack; and sister Margie Belliveau and aunt Anne Hare.

Peter will be most remembered for his love of the Miramichi and his countless volunteer hours.  This began with the Miramichi Jaycees and taking on the role of Canada Day Chairman. It also included, the Miramichi Irish Festival, Miramichi Senior Citizens Home, French Fort Cove Development Commission, Ritchie Wharf Project, Saint Mary’s Parish Council and the Rock n’ Roll Festival. Most notably, he served as President of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 10 where he took great pride organizing and emceeing the Remembrance Day Service.

He served as Councillor for the former Town of Newcastle and was its last Mayor from 1987-1995. He retired in 2016 as Director, Community Development and Tourism for the City of Miramichi.  

Peter had many hobbies over the years like fishing and wood working. As he slowed down, he most looked forward to his weekly card games with his friends at the legion, a daily game of Wordle and regular meals with his sister Anne and brother-in-law John.  Peter was forever grateful for all Anne and John did for him.

His most important role of all was that of grandfather. He was Catey’s and Elliott’s biggest cheerleader.  His daily FaceTime calls with words of encouragement are going to be dearly missed.

A private funeral will be held at St Mary's Roman Catholic Church. All are welcome to attend a reception in Peter's honour at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 10, 20 Fountain Head Lane, on Friday, June 2, 2023, from 6 to 9 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 10.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Northumberland Funeral Home & Crematorium, 102 Pleasant St, telephone (506) 622-7741. Where your loved one never leaves our care.