Eileen T. McMurray, 86, of Cream Ridge, New Jersey passed away peacefully at her home on Friday June 13, 2025 after an extended illness. The daughter of the late Stephen and Eleanor Estenes was predeceased by her husband, Peter H. McMurray and by two sons, Jason and Stephen McMurray. Eileen is survived by her son, Michael McMurray, his partner Debra Gould and his son Ryan, her daughter, Kelly Bednarczuk, Kelly's husband David and their sons Patrick and Matthew and his wife Nicole. Eileen is also survived by her daughter Coleen McMurray, Coleen's husband Jacob Ludwig, and their sons Jacob and Joshua, and her sister Mary L Brady. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law Patricia McMurray, granddaughters Stephanie McMurray, Danielle Haba, Danielle's husband David and their children, Jules, Hazel and Gabe; and finally, her special caregiver, Jamaris Pastrana, who provided friendship and comfort in her final months.

Born in Trenton, NJ, Eileen grew up in Hightstown, NJ, was an exceptional student throughout her life and the valedictorian of her graduating class at Hightstown High School. She attended both Rider College in NJ and Dowling College in Long Island where she lived and enjoyed family time at her home in Islip, NY and vacations on Fire Island. Eileen relocated to New Jersey where she worked for McGraw Hill Publishing company. In 1976, the family moved to Orlando Florida, where Eileen worked in the research division of Walt Disney World. Returning to New Jersey, she took a position at The Gallup Organization, where she worked for over 30 years, rising to the role of Senior Research Director. She received awards and recognition for her work which included a variety of publicly released surveys spanning important topics such as obesity and diabetes, as well as research on behalf of Special Olympics. She was particularly proud of the work she did assisting with research on women's health and wellness. During her career, she was able to travel and especially enjoyed visiting Paris and London with colleagues and clients.

Eileen studied music from a young age and was an accomplished musician and vocalist. She played and taught piano as well as the accordion. She often played the accordion and piano at holidays and gatherings to the delight of family and friends. She enjoyed writing her own music and passed her love of music on to several of her grandchildren. Eileen had an extensive sheet music collection and enjoyed traveling to antique stores hunting for additions to her collection. She loved to cook and celebrate holidays with elaborate meals and deserts -- especially her pies. Eileen was also known for her beautifully decorated presents and thoughtful gifts and cards, which were appreciated by many. She had a tradition of providing a pressed antique handkerchief to her friends after losing a loved one which provided comfort to those grieving.

Prior to her illness, Eileen enjoyed giving back to her community in Cream Ridge, regularly taking a role in local elections and working with local charities including, the New Egypt Food Bank, Helping Hands. She was a lifelong learner, taking many classes throughout her life both for her career and to learn more about her hobbies and interests such as painting, pottery, cooking and writing. She loved to read and enjoyed participating in her book club as well as spending time gardening -- especially growing lavender for sachets she would give as gifts. She learned how to tap dance and to bowl, joining her community league. She enjoyed the many community trips to Atlantic city and theater events. She loved visits to the ocean and walking along the beach with family. Her daughters will especially miss the antique shopping trips followed by waterfront lunches at the shore with her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Eileen's name your local food pantry or a charity of your choice. Eileen would also encourage people to talk to their medical professionals about the prevention of shingles. Services were private under the direction of Peppler Funeral Home, Allentown, NJ.