Laura Richmond, 68, passed away on June 30, 2026, after battling cancer with extraordinary strength and determination for seven years, often without uttering a word of complaint. Born on October 27, 1957, in Boston, Massachusetts, Laura was the daughter of the late Charles and Phyllis (Elliot) Murnaghan.

Laura was a woman of remarkable intelligence, quiet strength, and unwavering love for her family. Though naturally shy in her younger years, motherhood revealed a fierce confidence and determination that would define the rest of her life. She approached every challenge with calm, logic, and resilience - qualities that made her a trusted source of wisdom for everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Laura earned a degree in Mechanical Engineering and later returned to school to pursue a career in nursing, first becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse and then a Registered Nurse. Her career reflected both her brilliant mind and her compassionate heart. She worked as an application engineer at Orbotech, training customers on the use of the company's equipment and developing automation scripts to streamline operations. This is where she met the love of her life, Fred. She later dedicated herself to caring for others as a registered nurse.

Laura's abilities stretched well beyond her career. She could handle almost any home project, from constructing a porch to installing hardwood floors, all with the skill and precision of someone who had been doing it for decades. She was just as gifted outdoors, tending her garden with devotion. She was the family's problem solver, teacher, and steady hand, always willing to share her knowledge and encourage others to believe in themselves.

Above all else, Laura's greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted wife and an extraordinary mother who guided her children with patience, wisdom, and unconditional love. She had a remarkable ability to remain calm in difficult moments, helping those around her find clarity and confidence when they needed it most. Whether helping her son prepare for his plumbing license or supporting her daughter through her PTA studies and licensing exams, Laura gave of herself wholeheartedly, celebrating every accomplishment as if it were her own.

Her son, Alex, shared these words about his mother:

"Mom has given us so much advice and so many strategies for dealing with life's challenges. She paved the way for us to handle things the right way and prepared us for moments like this. We have to remember everything she taught us and carry those lessons forward. It's what she would want, and it's what she prepared us for."

Her husband, Fred, reflected on the life they built together:

"Laura was the smartest person I've ever known. More than anything, she was my best friend. We shared everything - our family, our dreams, our worries, and our lives. She was my rock, my conscience, and my calm, logical partner. She made every day brighter. I will always regret not telling her often enough how much she meant to me. Laura, I love you so much. I'm sorry I didn't say it every day, but I hope you always knew."

Laura is survived by her beloved husband, Frederick Richmond; her loving children, Alex Richmond and Sarah Richmond; her devoted older brother, Charles "Chucky" Murnaghan, with whom she shared an especially close bond; her younger brother, Jimmy Murnaghan; and countless dear friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness, generosity, humor, and unwavering support.

Laura's legacy lives on in the lessons she taught, the strength she inspired, and the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.

Following cremation, family and friends are invited to attend a memorial gathering on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium, 243 Hanover Street, Manchester, NH 03104.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute or World Central Kitchen in Laura's memory.