Doves released as loved ones remember 'doting' Sunderland mum Sam Murphy at funeral

The life of a Sunderland mum who was “adored” by her children has been marked with a celebration which recognised her kindness and her love for fun.
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Sam Murphy, 39, from the Red House estate, died suddenly but peacefully in her sleep, with her funeral held today, Tuesday, June 15, at the city’s crematorium.

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It was led by humanist Mark Black, who told the crowd of more than 100 about Sam’s life and loves, with many watching outside via a live stream as they abided by current restrictions.

Three white doves are released following the funeral of Red House mum Sam Murphy at Sunderland Crematorium.Three white doves are released following the funeral of Red House mum Sam Murphy at Sunderland Crematorium.
Three white doves are released following the funeral of Red House mum Sam Murphy at Sunderland Crematorium.

Mr Black spoke of how after leaving school, Sam got a job in a bakery, where she met Paul Levitt, and became parents to children who became the light of their lives.

"They were happy together and happier still when Ellis and Ethan came along,” he said.

"Sam was very much a doting mam and would do anything for her kids.

"The kids adored their mam.”

Sam Murphy was a much-loved member of the Red House community.Sam Murphy was a much-loved member of the Red House community.
Sam Murphy was a much-loved member of the Red House community.
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People invited to play a part in paying their final respects to Sunderland mum S...
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He spoke of family days out at Lightwater Valley and her love of shopping, as well as her dedication to keeping a tan, with her request for a white coffin to show it off followed through by her family.

He told of how she would bring a laugh and smile to others and would love to spend time with her friends.

“Sam had a big heart and was someone that would never let you down,” he said.

Scores of people attended the funeral of Sam Murphy at Sunderland Crematorium.Scores of people attended the funeral of Sam Murphy at Sunderland Crematorium.
Scores of people attended the funeral of Sam Murphy at Sunderland Crematorium.

“There is no doubt the world is now a much poorer place without Sam and you have those memories and stories of the person you have lost.

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"It was clear Sam was someone who enriched all of your lives and now of course there is a big gap that is left.”

Music played included (I’ve had) The Time Of My Life and Give Me Everything by Pitbull.

People watch on as doves were released following the funeral of Sam Murphy.People watch on as doves were released following the funeral of Sam Murphy.
People watch on as doves were released following the funeral of Sam Murphy.

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