Mary Frances Murphy

Mary Frances Murphy (nee Checkes) a beacon of love and creativity, passed away peacefully on January 17, 2025, in Columbia, Maryland, due to complications from influenza. Born on December 4, 1940, in Baltimore, Maryland, to the late Francis and Mary Checkes. She was a cherished soul whose warmth and kindness touched the lives of all who knew her.

Mary Frances was a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend. She is survived by her loving family, including her daughter Marybeth Stacharowski and son-in-law Gary, son Joseph P. Murphy, daughter Tina M. Belluomo and son-in-law Mark, and son Michael S. Murphy. Her legacy of love continues to live on through her grandchildren, Scott A. Stacharowski, Ashley M. Belluomo, and Kyle A. Belluomo, who will forever hold dear the precious memories they created together. Mary is also survived by her siblings, Teresa Lemon, Anne Ridgely, Francis Checkes, Jr. (Aida), the late Rita Dempsey, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Mary's life was one of passion and artistry. Her love for music filled her home with melodies that brought comfort and joy to those around her. Crocheting was more than a hobby for Mary; it was a way of expressing her love, as she created countless blankets and keepsakes for family and friends. Painting was another of Mary's talents, through which she conveyed her perspective on the world, leaving behind a vibrant tapestry of her inner thoughts and beauty.

Those who knew Mary describe her as loving and kind, a person who gave selflessly and fostered a sense of community wherever she went. Her creative spirit inspired others to see the beauty in everyday life and to cherish the simple moments that make life so precious.

Mary's journey through life was marked by her unwavering dedication to her family. She instilled in her children and grandchildren the values of compassion, resilience, and the importance of nurturing relationships. Her guidance and wisdom will remain a guiding light for her family and all who were fortunate enough to have felt her influence.

As we bid farewell to Mary Frances Murphy, we celebrate a life lived with purpose and joy. Her spirit will continue to be felt in the laughter of her grandchildren, the beauty of a well-crafted crochet piece, and the colors that dance across her canvases. Mary's life was a masterpiece, and her memory will be cherished forever.

Mary's family takes comfort in knowing that Mary's legacy of love and creativity will continue to flourish in the hearts of those she loved. Mary Frances Murphy's story is not one of an ending but a perpetual melody that will resonate for generations to come.

The family will receive visitors on Thursday at HARRY H. WITZKE'S FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 4112 Old Columbia Pike, Ellicott City, MD 21043, from 2pm-4pm and 6pm-8pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be said at St. Alphonsus Rodriquez Church in Woodstock, MD on Friday at 1pm followed immediately by the interment at St. Alphonsus Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary's memory to the Community Action Council of Howard County for the Food Bank.

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