It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Celeste (Murphy) Zinser, who left us on October 10, 2025, at the age of 78. Celeste was a devoted wife, a loving mother, a cherished sister, a grandmother who adored and was adored in return, and a dear friend to many. Her presence brought warmth, encouragement, and quiet strength to all who knew her.
Born with a creative spirit, Celeste was a talented artist whose work reflected both imagination and heart. She was also an entrepreneur and a successful sales manager, admired for her determination, confidence, and her ability to connect with others. Her creativity led her into many meaningful pursuits, including her work as a puppeteer, delighting children and families with stories brought to life.
Guided throughout her life by compassion, Celeste founded a non-profit organization dedicated to helping locate and advocate for missing children, offering hope and support to countless families. Her work was a testament to her belief in love, community, and the preciousness of every life.
Celeste treasured traveling with her family and taking simple joy in the beauty of the everyday. She loved sitting on the beach, watching the waves and the sky meet in quiet harmony, and she enjoyed riding along the coast to stop for ice cream. More than anything, she loved being with her family. She shared a special, loving bond with her grandchildren, Aaron and Ashleigh Provencal, and warmly embraced Ashleigh’s best friend, Olivia, loving her as though she were family from the time they were children.
Celeste was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jerry Zinser, and her parents, George and Julie Murphy.
She is survived by her children, Nicole Provencal and Stephen Mattie; her siblings, Carol Griffin, Kathy Greco, Daniel Murphy, and Sue Murphy; and her grandchildren, Aaron and Ashleigh, who will forever carry her spirit with them.
Celeste will be remembered for her creativity, generosity, grace, and the profound way she made others feel seen, understood, and loved. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the beauty she brought into the world.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, November 9, 2025 from noon until 1:00 PM at Alvine Memorial Chapel, 160 Derry Road, Hudson, NH. The Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium of Derry and Londonderry are assisting the family with arrangements.
May her soul rest in peaceful, eternal light.