• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

A Massachusetts woman, Linda Murphy, has captured hearts nationwide with her humorous self-written obituary, published after her death in September. Diagnosed with Bulbar ALS, a rare neurodegenerative disease, Murphy wrote her own farewell note in April, months before passing away at the age of 60. Her witty and candid words have now gone viral, offering both laughter and inspiration to those reading her story. 

Murphy, who grew up in Framingham and lived in Boylston, Massachusetts, didn’t just write her obituary; she planned nearly every aspect of her funeral. She chose her own casket, selected the music, and even arranged for a dance party in her honour. Her daughter, Justine Hastings, described her as “the life of the party,” adding, “One of my favourite comments was, ‘I just read this, and I just wish I could have had a glass of wine with her.’”

Humour In Face Of Illness

In her obituary, Murphy wrote with her trademark humour: “Well, if you’re reading this, looks like I’m dead. Wow, it actually happened. I died of FOMO due to complications of Bulbar ALS. I was just 60 years old, way too young! I was loved, comforted, and hugged until my last breath by my beautiful family and a couple of my besties.”

ALSO READ: Trump Warns Hamas To Act Fast On Gaza Peace Deal After Deadly Strikes, Says 'I Will Not Tolerate...'

Murphy had lost her ability to speak in the last year of her life and wrote her obituary while she could still type. She also reflected on the challenges of Bulbar ALS with a mix of honesty and humour: “Never speaking means not being able to say, ‘I love you!’ or order at the Dunkin’ drive-through. As far as eating, it totally stinks to sit at the table while people around you are eating juicy burgers… and I just have to smile and act like I’m enjoying my bowl of puréed baby mush!”

A Life Of Resilience

Before her ALS diagnosis in 2022, Murphy had survived breast cancer in 2012, an experience that inspired her to write a humorous book titled “F-Off Cancer,” demonstrating that life could still be joyful amidst illness. Her obituary carried that same irreverent spirit, celebrating her life with honesty, humour, and a sense of control over her final chapter.

ALSO READ: Pakistan Seeks US Partnership In Arabian Sea Port Development: Report

Murphy’s decision to donate her brain for ALS research further highlights her courage and generosity. Friends, family, and strangers have connected deeply with her story, admiring how she faced a debilitating disease while maintaining her sense of humour and autonomy. 

As Hastings read aloud, her mother described her “superpowers,” including the ability to drink without getting hungover, and reflected on the joys and frustrations of daily life.