Sharon A. Murphy

Sharon Murphy, 71, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025, at South County Hospital in Wakefield, Rhode Island surrounded by her four sons. Born on March 13, 1954, in Hartford, Connecticut, she lived a life marked by compassion, dedication, and a deep love for her family and the outdoors.

Sharon graduated from Bulkeley High School in Hartford and went on to earn an associate degree from Hartford Hospital of Radiologic Technology. She later pursued a degree in massage therapy, reflecting her lifelong commitment to healing and helping others. Her professional journey began at Hartford Hospital, where she worked as an X-ray technician for over two decades before transitioning into the role of a CT scan technologist. Once all of her sons graduated from high school, Sharon moved to her condo in Charlestown, RI as a permanent resident to be closer to her beloved beaches. Sharon continued her caregiving work by supporting several elderly members of the community with warmth and empathy.

Her devotion to others extended beyond her career. Sharon was a loving mother to her four sons—John Slusarz (partner, Stephanie Dwy), Greg Slusarz (wife, Wilcor Slusarz), Brian Slusarz (partner, Dehlia McCarthy), and Kyle Slusarz (wife, Jessica Slusarz)—and took immense pride in their accomplishments. She cherished her time with her grandchildren, Jenna and Michael Slusarz, whose presence brought her great joy.

Sharon is also remembered by her siblings: sisters Kathy Lopez and Eileen Crosby (husband, Keith Crosby); brothers John Kieselback and Thomas Kieselback (wife,Sue Flynn). She is remembered fondly by her former husband, Michael Slusarz (wife, Armen Slusarz) and many nieces and nephews who all loved her very much. They include Kristina and Jake Walling, Micahel Lopez, Jay and Kevin Crosby, Susie, Megan, Ellie and Sage Kieselback and Taylor and Molly Kieselback, Sharon held close memories of those who passed before her: her parents Arthur and Patricia Kieselback; her nephew Michael Walling; and brother-in-law Freddy Lopez.

A woman of many passions, Sharon had a special bond with animals—especially horses and dogs—and became an equine massage therapist as part of that love. She found peace in nature through hiking, especially with her dogs Cora and Simba, beach outings and enjoyed swimming at the local YMCA. Holidays and family gatherings were among her favorite times, where she could share laughter and create lasting memories.

Known for her kind heart and vibrant spirit, Sharon had a gift for making people smile. She was a social butterfly who delighted in dining out with loved ones at some of her favorite local spots including Matunuck Oyster Bar, Shelter Harbor Inn, and Haversham Tavern.

For the past two years, Sharon had struggled with kidney disease. Her family will be forever grateful for the kindness and care of the Innovative Renal Care Dialysis Center of Westerly, RI. Though no longer with us in body, Sharon’s legacy lives on through the lives she touched—with kindness that never wavered and love that knew no bounds. May her memory bring comfort to those who knew her.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, December 17th from 9am to 10am in Avery Storti Funeral Home, 88 Columbia St. Wakefield, RI. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, December 17th at 11am in St. James Chapel, 2079 Matunuck Schoolhouse Rd. Charlestown, RI. Burial will follow at Riverbend Cemetery in Westerly.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the West Place Animal Sanctuary in Tiverton, RI.