By: Jonathyn Lopez
Mary Murphy’s story begins in the heart of a large, loving Catholic family, the first of fourteen children. From the very start, her life has been intertwined with faith, family, and the quiet lessons that come from trusting in God’s plan. Her debut memoir, Why Not Let God Decide, will soon be available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and in most other places you purchase your favorite books. With over 200 digitally accessible photos that correspond to the chapters, the book is a “living memoir,” allowing readers to connect visually and emotionally with the story as it unfolds.
Mary’s memoir captures not only her personal journey but the collective story of a family committed to God, to each other, and to the community around them. She recounts life lessons learned as the oldest sibling, the challenges of raising and learning alongside thirteen younger brothers and sisters, and the humor, chaos, and joy that only a large family can provide. Each chapter, from Foundation to Finale, is rich with stories approved and cherished by her siblings, giving readers authentic glimpses into their lives. Her sister Martha served as her angel editor, offering guidance on writing and grammar, while her sister Annie spearheaded the family ancestry research featured in the first chapter. She also acknowledges the professional help from her publishing partners, Publify Press.
The inspiration for the book’s title comes from a defining moment between her parents. In 1949, when Mary’s mother and father were newly engaged and dreaming of their future, a simple conversation about how many children they should have turned into a lifelong guiding principle. Her mother asked, “How many children would you like to have?” and her father answered, “Maybe three or four.” Her mother replied, “Why not let God decide?” That answer became the foundation of a family that would grow to include fourteen children, over 125 extended family members, and decades of love, faith, and connection.
The book is more than a collection of stories; it is a celebration of life’s enduring lessons. Mary shares how her parents’ mantra to trust God with decisions will shape a life of purpose and love. Her reflections are relatable to readers from all walks of life, particularly those who grew up in the 1950s through the 1970s or anyone who values family, faith, and the impact of enduring legacies. With warmth, humor, and honesty, Mary invites readers to laugh, reflect, and embrace the power of trusting God in every aspect of life. Professionally, Mary’s upbringing also instilled in her the values of diligence, responsibility, and connection. Her father was a CPA, and many of her siblings followed in his footsteps. Mary was the first to work alongside him, learning not only the family trade but also the value of shared experiences and building memories through work and collaboration. These lessons of legacy and resilience resonate throughout her memoir.
Mary hopes her memoir inspires others to see the value in legacy, love, and community. She envisions her story reaching Catholic families, young couples navigating marriage, and readers who cherish tales of close-knit families who persevere through life’s challenges. “There is power in legacy and enduring tough times,” she notes, emphasizing the timeless relevance of her family’s experiences.
The book, Why Not Let God Decide, is a gift to posterity, a tangible celebration of a life and family shaped by faith, prayer, and trust. For anyone looking to connect with a story of devotion, humor, and heartfelt memories, this memoir offers a rare and intimate glimpse into a family whose story continues to grow. Once released, readers are encouraged to explore Mary’s book, leave a review, and connect with her via email at .
Mary Murphy’s story is a reminder that the greatest legacies are built not only through achievements but also through love, faith, and a willingness to trust in a higher plan. Why Not Let God Decide captures the beauty of living with purpose, celebrating family, and embracing life’s blessings—one page, one story, and one photo at a time.
