Kathryn Murphy

Kathryn J. Murphy (1958 – 2024)

Kingston, NY - Kathryn J. Murphy, a beloved member of the Kingston community, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on September 19, 1958, she was a radiant soul, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, compassion, and unwavering love.

Predeceased by her father Joseph P. Murphy, Kate is survived by her loving mother Virginia Murphy, her siblings Joe (Amanda) Murphy, Elizabeth (Peter) Wensberg, Mollie Berg, and Nellie (Chris) Spacek and her devoted partner Harvey Bostic. She also leaves behind her nieces and nephews who adored her; Garrett, Sophia, Shannon, Madeline, Ander, Leah, Ben, Landry and Harper, along with her two cherished canine companions, Jazz and Bella.

Kate's journey through life was marked by a profound passion for both her work and her furry friends. A graduate of Kingston High School, she pursued her passion for design at the Fashion Institute of Technology, setting the stage for a remarkable career. A forty-year veteran of the construction industry, Kate began in the trades as a young woman in an industry dominated by men. She started out repointing stone houses, working her way into the carpenters union and eventually construction management. For over two decades, Kate dedicated herself to working at the US Military Academy at West Point, NY. From Project Superintendent to Construction Quality Control Manager at Keller Army Community Hospital, Kate's unwavering work ethic and determination earned her the respect of colleagues and friends alike.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Kate was known for her deep connection with animals. From her earliest days, she possessed a remarkable ability to communicate with and care for creatures great and small. Whether horseback riding, windsurfing, skiing or participating in agility training with her dogs, Kate found solace and joy in the natural world around her.

Kate had infectious energy, a radiant smile, and she brought light and laughter to every gathering. Always the first on the dance floor, and happy to ski on a rainy day, no day was a bad day. Her love of dance, adventure, and living life to the fullest was an inspiration to all who knew her. She was always up for an adventure. Be it a new band to see, or a difficult ski run, Kate was ready.

In the end, she found happiness with someone who had been right there, by her side for most of her life, and found out true love is worth the wait.

A celebration of Kate's life will take place on Saturday, June 1st, at Keyser Carr Simpson Hammerl Funeral & Cremation Service, 326 Albany Ave., Kingston, NY 12401. Visiting hours will be from 10-12, followed by the funeral service at 12pm and then a graveside service at Hurley Cemetery. 

Rest in peace, dear Kate, knowing that you were deeply loved and will be profoundly missed.