Obituary of Ernest Murphy
We are saddened to announce the passing of Ernest William Murphy, who died peacefully at Andrews of Summerside on February 5, 2025, at the age of 95.
Born on December 27, 1929 in East Bideford, PEI, Ernest was the son of the late Russell and Florence (nee Paugh) Murphy. Ernest studied to become a teacher at Prince of Wales College in Charlottetown, then taught across West Prince in one-room schoolhouses. His career expanded to include a variety of roles, including as an editor at the Pioneer, and at CFB Summerside as a civilian. Ernest dedicated the majority of his professional life—33 years—to the federal government, mostly at the Canada Manpower Centre as an employment counsellor.
Ernest met Anne, his beloved wife of 63 years, at a Maritime Y Leadership Camp in Holland Cove. He traveled from Summerside, while Anne came over from Fredericton. They were married the following year on August 5, 1961 in Fredericton, and have been inseparable since.
Throughout his life, Ernest was an involved member of the community. He sang with the Barbershop Harmony and was an active member at Trinity United Church, volunteering at the church camp for many years. His generosity extended to various other local groups, including the MS Society, where he was a proud volunteer and supporter.
A lifelong Islander, Ernest had an exceptional knowledge of its history and geography, nurtured by several years of studies in Island History at community school. He enjoyed spending summers with Anne at their trailer in SW Lot 16, beachcombing by day, and visiting with friends and family. Ernest also had a passion for gardening, spending hours tending to his vegetable garden and planting flowers at their home on Argyle Street. He will be remembered for his love of hockey—his dedication to the Summerside Capitals as a long-time season ticket holder, and his unwavering support for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Ernest will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Anne (nee Estabrook), with whom he shared a life filled with love and support. He will be deeply missed by his cherished son Alvin, grandchildren, Heather and Kevin (Maddie), and his sister June (Kenneth) Crossman. “Uncle Ernie” will be remembered dearly by his nieces and nephews Janice Hardy, Randy (Jackie) Smith, Ronda Allen, Lois Crossman, and Philip (Sydonyia) Crossman. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law Connie Estabrook and Lillian (Ron) Davidson.
Ernest was predeceased by his sister Doris (Wally), brother Roy (Carmel), brother-in-law Alden Estabrook, and sister-in-law Shirley (Gene) Anderson.
A visitation will be held at East Prince Funeral Home on Monday, February 10 from 2-4PM.
A funeral service will be held at Summerside Trinity United Church on Tuesday, February 11 at 11AM, followed by a reception in the church auditorium. Burial will follow at 2PM at Bideford United Church Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Ernest’s memory can be made to Prince County Hospital or Summerside Trinity United Church.