Mary Sue Murphy

Mary Sue (Plein) Murphy, 63, of Ijamsville, Maryland, passed away on Sunday, July 9, 2017, surrounded by her family. She was the loving wife of Patrick Murphy.

Born on September 19, 1953 in Waukon, Iowa, Mary sue was the third daughter born to Francis and Marguerite Plein. Mary attended Waukon area schools and graduated from Waukon High School in 1971. She enlisted in the United States Army and was most honorably discharged in December of 1974. During her years of military service, she was assigned to work at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology. After her discharge from the military, Mary continued her work in the field of pathology at Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington DC. On May 27, 1988, Mary was united in marriage to Patrick Murphy. Mary worked alongside her husband Patrick for 23 years owning and operating Murphys Septic and Excavating Company.

In addition to her husband Patrick, Mary is survived by her two sons, Benjamin P. Murphy and wife Megan, and Joseph A. Murphy and her beloved granddaughter Mackenzie Murphy. She is also survived by her siblings, LuAnn (Mike) Kane, Connie Schneden, Mark (Sherry) Plein, Julie Berney, Sheila (Mark) Pladsen, Bill Plein, Tom (Tami) Plein, Muggs Palmer, Rob Plein and Kathie Plein; as well as many nieces and nephews, loving family members and friends.

In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by two brothers, Patrick and Michael Plein.

The family will receive friends from 2-4 and 6-8pm on Friday, July 14th, 2017, at Saint Ignatius Catholic Church, 4103 Prices Distillery Road, Ijamsville, MD 21754. The family will also receive friends from 9-10am on Saturday, July 15th at the church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10am. Father Michael Jendrik will preside. Interment will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to the St. Ignatius Catholic Community at the above address.

Mary’s family would like to express their gratitude to family, neighbors and friends for the support they offered her during her illness. Special recognition is due to Visiting Angels, Kristin Tamke and particularly Jessica Merritt who provided Mary with compassionate care, companionship, and a gentle hand. Jessica guided Mary through her final days with enormous devotion and support. The family would also like to extend their appreciation to Dr. Brian O’Connor and especially Dr. Meredith Wernick for their skill and care.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.keeneybasford.com