1882-1966
Grace Murphy (born Mary Grace Murphy) founded Murphy Funeral Home on Roseville Avenue and operated it until her death for 26 years.
Her obituary listed her as one of “the few women morticians in New Jersey” and “one of few women in business”.
Grace was active in Catholic organizations, including former President of the Mount Caramel Catechetical Society, aKempis of New Jersey, the Ladie’s Auxiliary of the Little Sisters of the Poor and the Catholic Forum.
Grace was a lifelong Newark resident. She lived at 543 Orange St with her family. Her father Edward was an undertaker. She graduated the McAllister School of Embalming in New York.
She was a member of the Essex and Union Funeral Directors Association and lived at 301 Roseville Avenue at the time of her death.
Bibliography
Kukla, Barbara J. Newark Women: From Suffragettes to the Statehouse.
“Miss Murphy Rites Today Owner of Funeral Home” Star Ledger May 23 1966
Catholic Advocate, Jan 1959, p 8
“Mortician 26 Years” Newark News May 21, 1966
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