Helena Bridget Murphy, 86, of Leeds, New York, passed away peacefully at home on December 22, 2025.

Helena was born on February 8, 1939, in Bantry, County Cork Ireland, to Cornelius and Mary (Calnan) Cotter. From an early age, she showed a caring spirit and a deep faith that guided her throughout her life.

She moved to England to pursue her calling in health care, where she attended nursing school and became a midwife before earning her registered nurse credentials. Helena later moved to New York, where she devoted more than 30 years to nursing, serving countless patients with compassion, strength, and unwavering dedication.

Helena married Thomas Murphy in Brooklyn in 1970 and went onto raise five children. They made their home in Leeds, New York, where Helena became the heart of her family.

Above all, Helena was a woman of remarkable strength, deep Catholic faith, and boundless love for her family. She faced life's joys and challenges with grace, resilience, and quiet determination. Her faith was her anchor, and her kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Helena was predeceased by her parents and her beloved daughter, Judy (O'Sullivan). She is survived by her brother Liam (Ella); loving children, Thomas (Erin), Anne (Boyd), Mary (Eric), Neil (Kryssy); ten cherished grandchildren and two adored great-grandchildren.

Helena's legacy lives on through her family, her devotion to caring for others, and the many lives she touched through her work and her love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Calling hours will be held Monday, December 29 from 3-7 p.m.at Traver & McCurry Funeral Home, 234 Jefferson Heights, Catskill. Funeral services and Mass will be held Tuesday at 11 a.m. at St. Patrick's Church in Catskill.

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