Catherine Marie Murphy (Loeser), lovingly known as Katie, Doc, or Murph, of Derry, NH, passed away suddenly in February 2025. She was born in Waltham, MA in 1979, the beloved daughter of Donna and Guenter Loeser.
Katie spent her early years in North Andover, MA, where her academic talents became evident. With the steadfast support of her parents, she went on to attend the prestigious Phillips Academy in Andover. From a young age, Katie was driven by the goal of becoming a dentist—a dream she pursued with determination, earning her undergraduate degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and her doctorate in dentistry from Tufts University.
Katie built a respected career in dentistry, rising from an associate to the owner of a successful practice at Aspen Dental in Methuen. Known for her clinical skill, leadership, and compassion, she mentored young dentists, treated her staff like family, and improved the lives of countless patients. Recently, Katie had stepped away from dentistry and was embracing a journey of self-discovery, looking ahead to new possibilities with courage and curiosity.
Katie’s proudest and most cherished role was that of mother to her two sons, John Charles Murphy and William Reid Murphy, who she affectionately referred to as JC and Will Reid. She delighted in sharing her favorite childhood books with them, welcomed them into her workplace to foster their understanding and curiosity, and was their most enthusiastic supporter—cheering from the sidelines whether she understood the game or not. Katie believed in her sons deeply, encouraging them to follow their own paths with love and strength.
To her wide circle of friends, Katie was a source of light, laughter, warmth and fierce loyalty. Her presence was magnetic—she had a gift of making every moment feel special and her smile could brighten the darkest days. She could fill a room with her energy, her stories, and her unmistakable laugh. She built and maintained friendships across every chapter of her life, offering support, humor, and generosity to those lucky enough to know her. Whether it was a spontaneous trip, a heart-to-heart conversation, or a quiet gesture of kindness, Katie showed up—fully and with love.
Katie's memory will be treasured by her sons, her parents, extended family, friends, and all who were touched by her warmth, generosity, and unwavering devotion.
Rest in peace, Katie. Your boys love you as much as all the sands on all the beaches in all the world.
A celebration of life, open to all who knew and loved her, will be held Sunday, May 18th from 1 – 4 pm at Camp Foster in Bedford, NH.