Mary Murphy

Obituary Mary E. Murphy Born April 16, 1917 in Tacoma to Frank & Monica Renggli, she was the fifth child in a family of four brothers and one sister. She died on November 3, 2009 at the age of 92. She attended Holy Rosary Grade School and St. Leo's High School. She married Carl Benson in 1941 who died unexpectedly three months after their marriage. After several years, she married Les Murphy who died in 1969 after a lengthy illness. She has been a widow for 40 years. Mary worked for Pacific Northwest Bell for 30 years. Not ready for retirement, her interests turned to real estate and she soon received her license. She was also enthusiastic about nutrition and beauty which led her into a successful Shaklee business. She received awards for sharing her expertise as a Beauty Advisor and nutrition consultant. She remained in business well into her 80s. A member of St. Patrick parish for over 50 years, she served several years as a Eucharistic Minister at Mass. Her four brothers Frank, Martin, Joe & Tony Renggli predeceased her. She is survived by one sister, Frances Hansen of Seattle and 25 nieces & nephews, and numerous great nieces and nephews. A wonderfully thoughtful and gracious lady, with an eye for the beautiful in life, she was admired greatly by all who knew her. Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Patrick Parish on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009 at 11:00 am with her nephew Fr. John Renggli, officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary cemetery. Remembrances in her honor may be made to St. Patrick Parish 1001 N. "J" St., Tacoma, WA 98403. Please leave online condolences at www.GaffneyCares.com. Arrangements by Gaffney Funeral Home, 253-572-6003.