Obituaries
Florence M. Carlton, 98
March 25, 2021
Florence M. Carlton died on March 25, 2021 at Willow Valley. Florence, known as “Floss” was born February 11, 1923 in Philadelphia, PA. Her parents were William Houston Murphy, Jr. and Ethel (Nuss) Murphy. She was married for 74 years to Floyd Mason Carlton, Jr. who died in 2016.
She was a graduate of Germantown High School, Philadelphia. Following graduation, she was employed by Germantown Trust Bank and later by Standard Brands, Inc. (Philadelphia and Washington, D.C.); the law firm of Adams and Porter, Arlington, VA – and following WWII worked for the firm of Vearling Real Estate, Philadelphia.
In Philadelphia she was active in Glading Presbyterian Church – she taught Sunday school, was a pianist for the men’s Bible class and a member of the Church choir. After the birth of two sons, the family moved to Hartsville, Bucks County, PA. where they were all active in Neshaminy Warwick Presbyterian Church.
At a later move in 1963 to Needham, MA. they attended Carter Methodist Church where Florence was Assistant Secretary; a Choir member and a Circle Leader. She was also later employed as Administrative Assistant for Temptronic Corp, Newton, MA.
Moving next to Marshfield, MA. she was a two-year Co-Chair of the Worship Committee of North Community Church and President of the Women’s Community League of that church. She was also employed as Secretary to the Senior Attorney of a law firm in Cohasset, MA. and later Secretary for the electronics firm of Evotek Scituate, MA.
In 2000, husband Floyd and Florence moved to Willow Valley Retirement Community, Willow Street, PA. where they were members of Ascension Lutheran Church. Florence enjoyed Genealogy research and formerly served as Secretary of the Genealogy Club of Willow Valley. Her other interests included playing piano, knitting, traveling, concerts, and correspondence with overseas relatives.
Florence is survived by a son, Thomas M. Carlton of Maine; niece Carol Dunlop (Dr. John); nephew William H. Murphy IV (Diane); niece Sharon Potts (Albert); and many great nieces and nephews. She is also survived by two beloved former daughter-in-laws Marcia (Carlton) Higgins and Maria (Kendrick) Kayes. She was preceded in death by husband Floyd; a son John R. Carlton and her brother William Houston Murphy III and sister-in-law Virginia (Blew) Murphy.
A memorial service will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family at Ascension Lutheran Church, 600 Penn Grant Rd, Willow Street, PA 17584.
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Condolences to the Family
April 10, 2021
To son Tom and family: We were so saddened to learn of your mom’s passing. She talked about you so much, and I know this past year has been quite difficult for her, and for you, since you couldn’t see each other due to covid. I talked with her in early March, and she sounded cheerful and healthy as always. Although, she was distressed to be “locked in” at Meadow Ridge, she maintained her optimistic attitude. We met her in 2008 when we temporarily lived at MidRise at Willow Valley, before moving to our Gables home. She always sent birthday cards and knitted baby blankets for Milagro House. She was a lovely person, and we will miss her. Our deepest sympathies to you and her family. Please contact us. Carol and Andy Aastad
April 07, 2021
I remember Florence and Floyd from their years in Marshfield, MA, and at North Community church. Both were very special people. When my son had a lenghthy hospitalization Floss invited me over for tea so we could chat and get to know each other better. Floyd was a gift to Clift Rodgers Library, as he posted the donors’ names on a board in the hallway. I do remember hearing of son Thomas of Maine and of thier son John who died many many years ago. I wish there were more people like Floss and Floyd in the world! Linda Eaton
April 04, 2021
Please accept my sincere condolences on Floss’s passing. She and Floyd were very, very special to the entire Babcock family. We so enjoyed their friendship, graciousness and generosity of themselves. She and I exchanged letters just a month ago so this comes as a surprise. A truly lovely and thoughtful lady who loved her family.
Betsy Babcock Cavicchio
March 30, 2021
We are so sorry to hear of Floss’s passing and extend our sympathy to the family. She and Floyd were such a blessing to my parents, Marvin and Ruth Hohenstein. When my father died, Floss was so kind and encouraging to my mom. They became such good friends at Meadow Ridge. Floss was always interested in our family and I will cherish her last letter to me.
Marcia and Ron Tyrrell
March 30, 2021
It was with sadness that we read of Floss’s passing. She and her husband Floyd were good friends Floyd had taught Bill how to cane. We had many good visits with Floss and met for lunch at the Vitality Cafe often. Floss was so full of life. Because of the Covid we hadn’t seen her but talked frequently on the phone. We will miss her.
March 29, 2021
I have known Floss since my wife and I moved to Willow Valley eleven years ago. She and Floyd welcomed us on that first day and sort of adopted us because, I think, because we were closest in age to them. She was funny and chipper and a joy to be with. And happiness radiated from her when I last spoke to her on her birthday a couple of weeks ago. I will miss her smiling face.
Michael Finn
March 26, 2021
On behalf of my mother, Betty Whetstone Booda, friends with Floss since high school days in Philadelphia, I extend my sympathy to the family. I had the privilege of meeting Floss at my father’s memorial service at Willow Valley in 2018 but I’ve listened to my mother and father speak of her and Floyd for many, many years. These two ladies made many memories over the years often keeping in touch by long distance until they both took up residence at Willow Valley. I know my mother will miss this dear friend.
