Maureen P. (McManus) Umphrey

Northborough - “The loveliest masterpiece of the heart of God is the heart of a mother,” a quote by Saint Thérèse of Lisieux perfectly describes the love Maureen Umphrey had for her four children. Her children remained the center of her world. 

With Jay, she instilled a passion for movies and was always a source of encouragement and unconditional support. For Tim, she was his number one cheerleader in his distinguished golf career, and they shared deep talks about faith. With Caitlin, she shared a love of long talks, motherly advice, their many mother daughter outings, and the quiet comfort and love of simply being together. With Matthew, she delighted in his curiosity, his musical talents, and she was his biggest supporter in everything he explored. She adored having them with her and treasured all of their help and support.

Maureen Patricia McManus Umphrey, born February 13, 1962, in Worcester, was one of four daughters of the late Leo F. and Patricia (Lilly) McManus. Raised in Worcester, she graduated from Doherty High School with the Class of 1980 and later earned her bachelor’s degree from UMass Amherst in 1984.

On October 18, 1986, she married James Glen Umphrey, the love of her life, at Immaculate Conception Church in Worcester. They knew each other from ages 16 and 17, and much like a song from her favorite musical ‘The Sound of Music’ their love story grew. The rest is history. Together they lived in Shrewsbury before moving to Northborough in 2007, where they made their home. Before dedicating herself to raising her children, Maureen worked in the insurance industry for Liberty Mutual and later for Lynch-Ryan Insurance Company.

Maureen had many friends and cherished the friendships she made through Tatnuck Country Club, Worcester Country Club, and The Worcester Club. She especially treasured time spent on Cape Cod and in York, Maine.

Maureen had a variety of interests and passions. She loved her home and especially loved travels with her family- her favorite visits were to Hawaii. She loved her home in Northborough, classic movies and television shows, traveling, and was a devoted Elvis fan.

She faced numerous serious health challenges throughout her life but possessed an extraordinary will to live. Joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer, Maureen passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was 64 years old.

In addition to her husband of 39 years, Jim, she leaves her children, James G. 'Jay' Umphrey of Worcester, Timothy L. Umphrey of Northborough, Caitlin P. Umphrey and Matthew M. Umphrey, both of Boston; her sisters, Carey A. Kozlowski (John) of Auburn, Erin M. Motameni of Boylston and Tara M. Doyle (Robert) of Glastonbury, Connecticut; in-laws, Essie Motameni of Southborough, Kim M. Moore (Chester) of Montgomery, Texas and Joy C. Federico (Barry) of Pelham, New Hampshire; also survived by her many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Family and friends will honor and remember Maureen's life by gathering for an Evening Wake from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19th in Saint Mary's Church, 640 Main Street, Shrewsbury. Her funeral Mass will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday in the church. Burial will follow in New Howard Street Cemetery, Northborough.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to UMass Memorial Health | Office of Philanthropy | 365 Plantation Street, One Biotech, Worcester, MA 01605 or https://www.ummhealth.org/giving

Arrangements by James + John Heald of The Joyce Funeral Home, 245 Main Street, Waltham.