"A beautiful send off for a beautiful woman" - Crowds gathered to honour Sunderland mum who died in her sleep aged 39

Crowds of people gathered at the Pulp Kitchen deli, off Ramillies Road at 6.30pm this evening, June 5, in memory of Sam Murphy.

The mum, who was born and bred on the city’s Red House estate, was devoted to her children and helping others, described by her friends as “a well known happy hour lucky girl, always smiling caring and loving towards her community.”

More than 60 people gathered to take part, including Sam’s children Ellis Golightly, 20, and Ethan Golightly, 16.

Ethan described his mum as an ‘absolute diamond’, he said: “She was really caring and always helped everyone out – She grew up here so everyone knows her, she will be missed by everyone.”

A minute silence was held and a clap followed to show respect to the ‘much-loved’ mum.

Sam’s cousin Boden Hughes, 33, said: “She’s always looked after me as she did with everyone – she’s loved by so many people.

"Everyone knows her, wherever you go on this estate they all know Sam – she’s a diamond.”

Manor House Funerals is covering the cost of her service after Sam died peacefully in her sleep, while funds are being raised to support the siblings.

Jolene Casey, who runs the Pulp Kitchen deli launched the event after working with other kind-hearted people from the estate to set up a fund to help cover costs for the family.

Family and friends thanked Jolene for her ‘amazing’ work in supporting Sam’s family and organising the fundraiser.

Jolene said: “Sam has lived here a long time and she was very popular around here, she was always smiling.

"I knew I needed to help – Sam was an asset to this community.”

Sam’s Aunt Lynn added: "Sam will be hugely missed, she helped everyone and just look at how the community have rallied together.

"We want to thank everyone for the support.”

Sam’s funeral will be held on Tuesday, June 15, at 12.30pm at Sunderland Crematorium, with everyone welcome to turn out to help celebrate her life.

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