Obituary: Deborah Murray, 74, Of Milford

Information and photo via Cody-White Funeral Home

Deborah Gayle Murray, 74, of Milford, Connecticut, beloved wife of 57 years to Russell Charles Murray, passed away peacefully at Branford Hospice on April 22, 2023, after a courageous battle with Cancer.

Born on November 26, 1948, in New Haven, Connecticut, she was the daughter of the late Willis and Florence (Miletto) Hearns.

Debbie was the founder and president of the Family Childcare Network for over 30 years.

She volunteered to provide affordable and safe daycare options for numerous in-need families in the Milford, West Haven, and Orange areas.

Debbie also owned her family daycare, Caring and Sharing Daycare, for over 20 years. She was invited to Yale to speak at a lecture along with Fred Rogers of Mister Rodgers’ Neighborhood, who, like herself, advocated for children.

Her devoted passion for caring for children was evident in her work.

Debbie loved to garden, and when she wasn’t enjoying the outdoors, she was inside cheering for her favorite teams, The New York Giants and The New York Mets. She also loved to make beautiful holiday wreaths for family and friends. Music was a significant influence in her life. She enjoyed listening to all kinds of music.

In addition to her loving husband of 57 years, Deborah is survived by her children, Eric (Catherine) Murray of Monroe and Gordon (Melissa) Murray of Milford; her grandchildren, Erica, Samantha, Maxwell, Gillian, Cameron, and Connor Murray; and many beloved nieces and nephews as well as extended family members and friends.

A Mass will be held on Friday, April 28, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at Saint Agnes’ Church, 400 Merwin Ave.

Instead of flowers, donations may be sent to The American Cancer Society in her name.