Obituary of Phyllis G. Murdock

Phyllis G. Murdock, 96, The Ponds, passed away Sunday, July 6, 2025, in Ivey’s Terrace Nursing Home, Trenton, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born in Merigomish, she was a daughter of the late Lawrence George and Marjorie Bradley (Smith) Arbuckle. In 1946 Phyllis moved to Toronto, Ont., and in 1950 married the love of her life, Stewart Murdock, beginning a 64-year journey together. She returned to The Ponds with her beloved husband, Stewart in 1981 to enjoy a rural retirement. Phyllis was an incredible mom, who was happy with the adults her children became. She was the “Queen of clean” and made the most of every day, baking, knitting, quilting, listening to old County Music, playing cards and attending kitchen parties “up home” at the Murdock’s. She was a member of the St. Paul’s Ladies Guild, where she enjoyed quilting, conversation and tea.  Phyllis was a proud Nana and GG, who was affectionately called the “best Nana ever”.

Phyllis was a resilient, kind, independent, selfless and patient lady, who left a beautiful legacy for her family to celebrate. Although she will be missed beyond words, her family are comforted to know that she is reunited with her beloved Stewart and son, Bruce, and many loved ones who have gone before.

Surviving are her children, Judy Murdock, New Glasgow; Paul (Wendy) Murdock, Collingwood, Ont.; Vern Murdock, Pine Tree; Bruce’s partner, Lynn Lauducci, Liverpool, N.Y.; grandchildren, Darryl, Christopher (Katie), Carly (Ryan), Kristi (Jeff), Brent (Lacey), Robyn (Chad), Shelby (Peter) and Hayley; great-grandchildren, James, Katie, Kayleigh, Colton, Quinn, Isabelle, Andie, Emily, Lucy and Abigail; brother-in-law, Sammy Murdock, Ponds; numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, Stewart; son, Bruce; siblings, Marion Arbuckle, Mildred Cameron, Joyce Robertson, Gloria Sheehan, Betty Cameron, Robert Arbuckle and Beverly Kingsbury; sisters-in-law, Aleta Murray, Anna Mae Nicholson, Loretta Arbuckle, Norma Mingo and Doris Arbuckle-Thompson; brothers-in-law, Harry, Jamie, Leroy, Arthur, Kenny and Jackie Murdock; several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive visitors from 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, July 9 in P. & K. MacDonald Funeral Home, New Glasgow. Funeral service will be held 2 p.m. Thursday, July 10 in St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, Merigomish with Rev. Gail Johnson Murdock officiating. Interment will be in Murray’s Point Cemetery, Lower Barney’s River.

Phyllis’ family wishes to thank the wonderful family and friends who helped throughout the years. Also, the many staff members of the Pictou County VON, Valley View Villa, Ivey’s Terrace Nursing Home, caregivers Marlene and Wendy for the wonderful care she received.

In lieu of flowers, share a laugh, tell a good story, or brag – just a little – about someone you love. Phyllis would’ve liked that. Donations may be made in her memory to St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church or Murray’s Point Cemetery. Bottom of Form

“You’re the best! You are our sweetheart!”