Rose Murphy Skelly's Obituary
Rose Murphy Skelly, 90 passed away on October 12, 2025. She was born June 24,1935 in Staten Island, NY to the late Anna and Marvin Murphy.
In addition to her parents Rose is preceded in death by her loving husband of 56 years, Edgar D. Skelly; sister Pat Solas of Whiting, NJ. and brothers John Murphy, Mt. Dora, Fl and Martin Murphy, Greenbrook, NJ.
In 1995 Rose and Ed moved from Mountainside, NJ to Olde Hickory Golf and Country Club, Ft. Myers, FL. While living in NJ Rose worked for Carpenter Steel as the Executive Assistant to the CEO. Being one who could not sit still Rose began a second career with Norris Furniture Ft. Myers, Fl. where she enjoyed years of fond relationships.
Rose lived an exciting and adventurous life. As a teenager she and her family lived in Saudi Arabia. Her love of learning and adventure never stopped. She and Ed traveled the world always making new friends. Her fondest trips were back to her family’s homeland of Ireland. It was there that she lovingly spent time with her Murphy, Harkins and Harley relatives in the original family home. Even at 88 she planned a trip to Sante Fe, New Mexico to take part in the Hot Air Balloon Festival so she could experience the joy of floating over the treetops.
Those who knew her will remember her love of dogs, her kindness and her wit. Rose was an avid reader and enjoyed playing cards while Ed took great pride in his landscaping and “visiting” with fellow neighbors and friends.
Leaving behind with sadness, Nieces: Lori Horrigan, Ft. Myers, Fl; Linda Dilger, Milford, NJ; Diane Goldstein, Berwyn, PA; Judy Reagan, Tinton Falls, NJ; Arleen Read, Toms River, NJ; Nanci Thompson, Vero Beach, Fl; Wendy Jordan, Vero Beach, Fl; Dionne Santomauro, Barnegat, NJ; Nephews: Robert Murphy, Plainfield, NJ; John Murphy, Plainfield, NJ; “Skip” Combs, Casa Grande, Arizona; Christopher Skelly, Berkley Heights, NJ and several great-nieces and great-nephews.
There will be a memorial service1:00pm Saturday, April 11, 2026 at Ft. Myers Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 1589 Colonial Blvd. Ft Myers, Florida 33907.
Memorial contributions may be made in Rose’s honor to Hope Hospice at 9470 Healthpark Circle, Ft. Myers, Fl 33908 or to The Asher House for Rescued Dogs P.O. Box 3548 Salem, Oregon 97032.
Memories and condolences may be left online at https://www.fortmyersmemorial.com/obituaries/rose-skelly.
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