Woman Creates Heartfelt Obituary Before Passing from ALS

Linda Brossi Murphy, a resident of Massachusetts, passed away on September 21, 2023, due to complications from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Before her death at the age of 60, she crafted a deeply personal and humorous obituary that celebrated her life and shared insights into her battle with this debilitating disease.

In her moving tribute, published on the website of McCarthy, McKinney & Lawler Funeral Home, Murphy began with a candid acknowledgment of her passing. “Well, if you are reading this obituary, it looks like I’m dead. WOW, it actually happened … I died of FOMO due to complications of Bulbar ALS,” she wrote. This opening sets the tone for a heartfelt reflection on her experiences and the love she shared with her family.

Murphy highlighted the emotional and physical toll ALS took on her. She described the challenges of losing her ability to speak, noting the pain of not being able to express her love verbally. “Never speaking means never being able to say, ‘I love you!’” she lamented, detailing how the disease impacted her daily life, including her struggles with meals. “Living had gotten to be such an overwhelming burden every day,” she expressed, but she remained determined to present a brave face to the world.

The obituary also celebrated her enduring partnership with her husband, David, whom she affectionately referred to as “Hubby.” They shared a bond that spanned 42 years, evolving from young love into a life filled with family and grandchildren. Murphy humorously noted that, around a year and a half ago, her respirator, which she named “Hosee,” became part of their daily routine, transforming their relationship dynamic. “From then on, David woke up next to what looked like a fighter pilot with smooshed hair!” she quipped.

Murphy reflected fondly on her family, describing them as “the absolute best thing about my life.” Her passion for life and social gatherings shone through as she shared her fear of missing out (FOMO), a sentiment that resonated deeply with her. “My favorite pastime was being with my family & friends, hence why FOMO did me in!” she wrote.

She also humorously listed her “super powers,” one of which was her ability to drink without suffering hangovers, remarking, “the real wonder is why I didn’t die of liver failure.” Her infectious spirit was evident as she expressed her genuine happiness and love for being around kind people.

Murphy did not shy away from sharing her thoughts on kindness, urging readers to treat everyone with respect. “Please be kind to everyone: the telemarketer, the grocery clerk, the Dunkin’s staff,” she advised. Her message of positivity extended beyond her lifetime; she donated her brain and spinal cord to Massachusetts General Hospital for ALS research and requested that donations be made to Compassionate Care ALS in her honor.

As she concluded her obituary, Murphy bid farewell to her earthly existence with a sense of joy. “It was a blast while it lasted. We sure did have fun!” she wrote, leaving behind a legacy of love and laughter. She encouraged her loved ones to spread happiness, suggesting they forgo flowers and instead share scratch tickets with strangers.

Murphy’s poignant farewell serves as a reminder of the importance of love, laughter, and kindness, even in the face of life’s greatest challenges.