People invited to play a part in paying their final respects to Sunderland mum Sam Murphy

The Sunderland community is being welcomed to turn out as respects are paid to a mum-of-two who died suddenly aged 39.

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On Tuesday, June 15, they will gather to say their final farewell as her funeral is held at Sunderland Crematorium.

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Her loved ones have asked people line the drive to the venue ahead of the 12.30pm service, and have also suggested anyone who cannot attend watch the procession as it leaves Southwick at around noon.

Sam Murphy, right, with her late mum Bev and her daughter Ellis, now 20.Sam Murphy, right, with her late mum Bev and her daughter Ellis, now 20.
Sam Murphy, right, with her late mum Bev and her daughter Ellis, now 20.

It will head down Thompson Road, from a distance shortly before the Italian Kitchen, and head through Southwick Green as it makes its way over the Northern Spire Bridge.

Sam’s family have invited people to wear touches of blue or red for the service.

Sam leaves children Ellis Golightly, 20, and Ethan Golightly, 16, who shared the message “Always and forever Mam, you diamond” as they led tributes to Sam.

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Her funeral is being organised by Trevor Shingler, of Manor House Funerals, which is covering the cost of the service.

Sam Murphy was 39 when she died in her sleep.Sam Murphy was 39 when she died in her sleep.
Sam Murphy was 39 when she died in her sleep.

He said: “It is clearly a close community and it was such a sad story, I spoke to the owner of the company and he just decided it would be nice to be able to help.

"She was very well liked.”

The firm has also gifted doves to be released after the service, which will be led by humanist Mark Black.

Around 60 people turned out to join in a balloon release, minute's silence and a clap in tribute to Sam Murphy.Around 60 people turned out to join in a balloon release, minute's silence and a clap in tribute to Sam Murphy.
Around 60 people turned out to join in a balloon release, minute's silence and a clap in tribute to Sam Murphy.
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More than 60 people joined in the event, including Sam’s children, with a minute’s silence followed by a round of applause as people gathered together in their grief.

Banners have also been posted up in the area, inviting people to show their support for Sam’s family.

A fund set up to support Sam’s family by Sunderland deli owner Jolene Casey, of Pulp Kitchen, has now topped more than £880 and can be found via Help Jolene's Personal Emergency Fundraiser on Facebook.

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