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Kevin Murphy Obituary
"Look! They're cleaning my office," he had said, pointing from the deck of the Spirit of New York as it cruised beneath the twin towers. Not that he could really see his desk pressed against the window at Marsh & McLennan on the 100th floor, where he drank in the inverse view daily.
It was Sept. 7, a welcome night out for Kevin J. Murphy and his wife, Beth. Melanoma is a slippery cancer, and hers had returned in May 2000. On Valentine's Day, she had her last treatment. He took her to "Beauty and the Beast." But then a virus took hold. Before the diagnosis the couple feared the worst: more cancer, worse cancer. The boat ride came when she had again recovered, again with him as her chief cheerleader. "This will be my birthday present," said Mr. Murphy, a newly 40-year- old Long Islander.
They met on another of his birthdays: She sneezed. He said, "God bless you." There is a son now, Connor, 7, and a daughter, Caitlyn, 4. Mr. Murphy helped Connor assemble an "All About Me" collage on Sept. 10. Caitlyn asks to watch "It's a Wonderful Life," to see "if Daddy gets his wings."
His absence is "like an amputated leg," says Mrs. Murphy, who knows what she is talking about: two dozen lymph nodes were sliced from her thigh; it is permanently numb. At her sickbed, he wept for her. He ordered her to live. She did.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Natalie Nevarez
September 11, 2018
Dear Murphy family,
On Sept 11, 2002, when I received a ribbon with Kevin's name on it, I vowed to keep him and your family in my prayers--always. To this day, I continue to do so every night. Sending prayers and hope from Texas.
j p
September 11, 2017
Heard your name called on television today by your son. Sending my condolences to the family. May he rest in peace.
friend
September 10, 2015
Never4get You Kevin...never
S J. Friscia III
May 11, 2015
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Caitlyn Murphy
June 10, 2012
Hi daddy it' s Caitlyn,
I decided to write you this letter on here to let everyone know how much you much you meant to me. Recently, there have been a lot of big events going on in me and Connor's life which makes me think about you and miss you even more. Dad, you would be so proud to see the special man Connor has grown into being to today. He is always there looking out for me and cares about me so much. He is just about to graduate from high school this year and will attend Syracuse University in the fall. I wish you could be here to see what a wonderful person he has turn out to be. You would have been the proudest parent to have heard he won homecoming king this year.
Daddy, can you believe that your little girl has just turned 15 and will be going into 10th grade next year. I miss you so much every day and just wish that you could see me grow up. For my birthday mom finally gave in to getting me a puppy. She is so cute and her name is Callie. You would have loved meeting her.
Mom is about to have a birthday soon. She has been the best mom I could ever ask for and she has raised connor and I so well. I could tell you would be so proud of her. She always puts her kids first.
Daddy, I miss you and love you so much.
Caity
Steve Kimmel
October 13, 2011
Kevin's wife Beth and I were new teachers working together many years ago. When Kevin and Beth were newlyweds, Kevin wanted to get Beth a new car. In order to do that he needed to sell his car which was a Honda Civic hatchback with a 5 speed (Beth couldn't drive a stick shift). I was in the market for a "real" car with heat and air conditioning (a first ever for me) so I bought Kevin's year old car with 30,000 miles on it and drove that car for the next 10 years putting 186,000 miles on it. And then I sold it! I have never forgotten Kevin. He was one of the nicest guy's I've ever met. News of his passing has never left me. To me he symbolizes all of the incredible people who lost their lives due to this horrible act. I wish Beth and Kevin's children and family, a life of continued love, hope, and peace.
Steve K.
Glenwood Landing
Also posted this entry in Newsday's Memory archive.
Nancy Jokipii
October 9, 2011
Beth, Connor and Caitlin, We met in The hospital about 2 weeks before Kevin's death. You were a beautiful family. Unfortunately, fate had something else in mind for the both our us. My husband also passed away in 2004. He was one of the 9/11 rescue workers. Time has marched on. My youngest, Eric has started college. May both our families have peace and healing. God Bless your family.
Carol Flynn
September 11, 2011
Dear Beth, Connor and Caitlin,
I cannot believe that Kevin has been gone for ten years. I think of him and feel his presence often. His kind and gentle manner as well as his keen sense of humor will always stay with me. His love for the three of you served as a model for many. I am always so happy that even though it was for too brief a time; you were the most special to him and got to experience a love that many never attain. I will always remember Kevin with admiration and love. I hope you can find some peace in your heart on this anniversary and know that you are all loved and admired by many.
Love, Carol & Dick
Glenn Bucci
September 7, 2011
I rode the same train as Kevin every day into the City. I worked at another brokerage firm in the World Trade Center. I still miss him, and think of you Beth and your children. I am speaking at my church on Sunday and will include Kevin in my message. Remember that you and your family will be with him again.....for ever. Everything that you and your children missed out on with Kevin you will be able to do in heaven.
Natalie Nevarez
May 2, 2011
On November 4, 2003, I posted a message on this guest book. The message included a prayer--which includes Mr. Murphy and your family-- that I recite every night before bed. After hearing the news of Osama's death last night, the first thing that came to mind was Mr. Murphy and your family. I know we don't know each other, and I can't imagine what your family has gone through, but please know that I will continue to include you and Mr. Murphy in my prayers. God bless you and your family.
Michael Lyons
April 2, 2011
It's hard to believe that 10 years have passed since God welcomed you to heaven. Beth has raised two beautiful children who are sensitive, caring, and gentle, just like you. Your brothers and I think of you often, remembering the fun times, laughing until our sides hurt. I visit your memorial often since I have moved back to the city to work. I miss you and think of you often.
Michael
Jay Handfield
September 6, 2008
It is hard to believe that almost seven years has past since the loss of Kevin. I never knew Kevin but I did now his wonderful parents. I wear with pride a bracelet with Kevin's name on it. I tell with pride the story of this great man and his family. May God watch over your family
Kevin Gustina
September 11, 2007
God bless and much sympathy to his family.
Mary Brig
September 10, 2007
I went to St. Patrick's elementary school with Kevin from 1st-8th grade. In high school I would occasionally see him at St. Anthony's or at gatherings with friends. He was always, at all times, very warm and friendly. I was so sad to hear of his passing, but am so glad to hear that he had a wonderful wife and two beautiful children that made his life a happy one. We brought a golden retriever puppy into our family shortly after 9/11 and named him "Murphy" in honor of Kevin. I will continue to keep Kevin's family in my daily prayers. May God bless them with his peace and love as they approach the 6th anniversary of 9/11.
Lori Rehfeldt
March 15, 2007
As St. Patrick's Day rolls around, you are in our thoughts.
May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back, and when we meet again may God hold you in palms hand.
Lori Rehfeldt
Stained Glass A-2-Z, Inc
P Tabbernor
January 12, 2007
In remembrance....
Walter Kelt
October 31, 2006
I was lucky enough to go through St. Pat's and St. Anthony's with Kevin. I remember him as a fun loving guy with a big heart. I hope we all pay tribute to him by embracing and utilizing these qualities.
Kristine
October 30, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Tracey Sheluck
September 11, 2004
You probably don't remember me, but I want you to know that I still think about you and your family often. I was Caitlin's camp teacher a few summers ago. Today is 9/11/04 and I've been praying for your family today. I hope that you are all healthy and please know that you are in my prayers.
Donna Burns
March 11, 2004
Dear Beth,
We do not know each other nor have we met. I am a resident of Smithtown as of 5 years now. My children attend Saint Patrick's School. I was simply looking for the school site when I came across your husband tribute. I hope your health is well and my prayers go out to you and your children. I realized how blessed I am. My husband travels a great deal and I am still so worried every time he gets on a airplane. 9/11 was the first day of my sons nursery school at St. Pat's. My sons name is Connor now 6 and my daughter is Caitlin now 4. I just had to write to you to tell you how sorry I am to hear your story. Keep strong and God Bless You.
Natalie Nevarez
November 4, 2003
Dear Murphy Family,
On September 11, 2002, I remember waking up and feeling very depressed. I didn't feel like going to school, and I decided to go to a gathering to remember the 9/11 heroes. People got in line, received a ribbon with a hero's name, and rang a bell. I received a ribbon with Mr. Murphy's name. From that day forward, I decided to keep him and your family in my prayers. Every night I say the following prayer:
"Thank you God for everything you have given me today. Please take care of my baby (my husband). Keep him safe, and keep him out of trouble. Please take care of my family and friends. Help Jasmine, Chana, my grandma, John, and Kevin James Murphy and his family be happy wherever they might be. Please help the homeless find their way home, and help all the soldiers come home safely."
I will always keep you in my prayers.
God bless,
Natalie Nevarez
Nancy Jokipii
September 11, 2003
Dear Beth and Family, I have thought of you many times since our fateful encounter in the hospital three weeks before your husband passed away. We were both ill with the same stabbing pains. It was clearly a sign of what was to come I believe. I still think of my husband, a sergeant in the NYC police dept. and your brother, the Lt. with your husband all huddled in the hallway of the hospital before that evil day. All I can say is they were truly heroes. God was preparing them for that day. I think of you and say prayers for you. You husband was truly a bright light. I remember him bringing flowers into the room the day you joined me in the room and thought what a nice guy. I will continue to say prayers for both you Beth and your children. God Bless you. Nancy
Jonathan Steckler
January 24, 2003
Kevin was my best friend growing up. I lived next to door to the Murphy's on Whitney Gate for years. We all grew up together. The wonderful memories I have of our childhood together could fill up 10 books! Kevin, remember the hours we spent sled riding in our backyards or playing basketball in your driveway. I will cherish those memories now more than ever before. Though we hadnt seen one another in years, I was devastated to learn that Kevin was in the WTC. To the Murphy family, my love and prayers are with you all. I will never forget Kevin...May the four winds blow him safely home.....
Tim Daugherty
September 13, 2002
Dear Mrs. Murphy, Connor and Caitlyn. I live in a town about 15 miles east of San Diego and I have never heard of Kevin or the rest of you until yesterday (9.11.02). But I had the honor and privledge to read Kevins name and ring a bell for him in honor of all the victims of 9.11. I didn't know what I was going to do to acknowledge 9.11, but I felt compelled to do something, so chose this name reading, and Kevins name was randomly selected for me. The reading started at 5:46am and didn't finish until about 1:30pm after every 9.11 victims name was read. There were only five people in line after me when it was over, so if I was a few minutes later I would not have had this honor.
Besides his memory echoing around the world, his name was heard over the radio as far as the signal carries from San Diego. I've printed Kevins picture from the web site and have it on my wall, and if it's all right with you I would like to consider him my guardian angel also.
Words can not express my sorrow. My thoughts and prayers to you and yours. Kevin will always be in my memories.
God Bless
JB and Stephanie Brady
September 11, 2002
For Jake on 9-11-02:
I recall with a smile how Kevin always had to put up with you and me and our talent for annoyance when we were kids. By all accounts he became a great man and will be missed.
You and the entire Murphy clan are in our prayers.
Anthony Badalamenti
September 11, 2002
I was a high school classmate and friend of Kevin's at St. Anthony's. Although our post-high school lives went in different directions, and we lost contact, I can picture Kevin in the activities of high school like they were yesterday. May memories of a good life, a good man, and happy times comfort his loved ones. He touched many more people than he ever knew. God bless you Kevin.
Bob Glass
September 11, 2002
I was a classmate of Kevin's at Mount St. Mary's. Really got to know Kevin in our freshman and sophomore years. Remember the nickname we gave him "Thumb" based upon how well he played intramural sports. But he always made us laugh. Still hard to fathom that something like this could happen. God's strength to his family.
Cheryl and Brian Gavin
September 10, 2002
Dear Beth, Connor and Caitlyn,
As the one year anniversary approaches we still can't believe that Kevin is gone. He was such a wonderful man and a good friend to all that knew him. We feel very fortunate to have known Kevin and it was our pleasure to spend time with all of you. During the time we spent together, it was obvious that you were Kevin's life and his reason for living. Although it is difficult, please try to find some comfort in knowing that you were so special to Kevin and he definetly loved you with all of his heart. Please remember that you have friends to call on whenever you need to...all our love.
meredith lewenson
September 10, 2002
hi, dear mrs. murphy and family i live a few houses away fom you and when i found out that someone on our own block had lost someone, my heart broke, everytime i pass your house my heart goes out to you and you precious angels. you've been through so much, please stay strong i know your husband must have been very liked man, i can see it in his smile. please never give up, you live in a wonderful neighborhood and we are always here to help.
thank you and godbless
Patty Ryan
September 6, 2002
Beth, you and Kevin were always the cousins I remember being so nice and pleasant and happy. I enjoyed talking to you whenever we saw you. We didnt get to see each other often but when we did it was always something I remembered and will always remember. Your in my thoughts and prays.
tracey sheluck
September 1, 2002
as the anniversary of your loss approaches please know that you are still in my thoughts and prayers.
Linda Beyus
August 30, 2002
Beth and Family my heart goes out to
you and your family. Kevin worked with me at Fireman's Fund Insurance
Company. I would set up the claims
for Kevin and wait for the phone to ring to hear his voice and how he made my day by joking and laughing.
He will always be in our thoughts and never forgotten for his smile and laughter. Beth and Family he truly is your Guardian Angel. Miss You, Linda Beyus at Fireman's Fund Insurance
Glenn
August 27, 2002
It is a couple of weeks before the one year anniversary and it still saddens me that Kevin is gone. I hadn’t seen Kevin for quite some time prior to 9/11 and that is regretful. Beth, if you visit this site and read this I truly hope you, Connor and Caitlyn are hanging tough. Many, many people care and prey for all of you. Kevin, if somehow you can see this, just know you are gone but certainly not forgotten.
shari spears
August 27, 2002
MRS. MURPHY IT'S ALOMOST THE ANNIVERSARY OF YOUR LOSS MAY EACH DAY BE A BLESSING FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY THINKING ABOUT 911 ALWAYS..
Jill Murphy
April 12, 2002
May God bless the familys that lost someone and my prayers are with you always.
Christine Paterakis
April 8, 2002
With my deepest condolences-
May god bless this family with great care and compassion for all of eternity-
Mary Faith Sipprell
April 7, 2002
my thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. I was a classmate of Kevins mother Sally at Marymount college, class of 58 and just learned about Kevin.
March 13, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS WONDERFUL MAN...KEVIN JAMES MURPHY AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS WIFE ..CHILDREN..FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..STAY CLOSE AND NEVER FORGET 9/11/01..GOD BLESS AMERICA AND NEW YORK...MAY JESUS ST.JAMES AND ST.PATRICK GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Robert Bradley
March 7, 2002
My brother - John - and I played ice hockey with Kevin for St.Anthony's HS. It was a very long time ago, but in some ways, I remember it were like yesterday. I still play hockey today, and I hope I have a little piece of Kevin and all the other people that touched my life in those special years.
With love and admiration
Bob Bradley
Dympna Haber
January 16, 2002
I was deeply moved to read the account of Kevin's life on the New York Times web site. It reminded me of the great love of Kevin for his family that was so powerfully displayed at his funeral.
The Murphy and Heyser families remain in my prayers.
Sr. Dympna Haber, RSHM
Lori Rehfeldt
January 16, 2002
I was flipping through PEOPLE magazine and was reading the article about Beth and Kevin. Skimming the article I noticed Kevin was a 40 year old guy who was born in Smithtown. I know Smithtown is a large town but I thought to myself...hmmmm do I know this guy? I went to the front of the story and learned his last name was Murphy. I didn't know Kevin, but I knew his older brother Tim from 3rd grade up to 8th grade. I also knew Tim's brother Michael who was in my sister's class. The Murphy boys were nice kids. They were alter boys, and I remember thinking how cute Tim was. He hung out with the 'cool' kids. I haven't seen Tim since 1973 and there he was helping his sister in law Beth. Tim is still a good guy and my heart goes out to Beth and Kevin's brothers and sister and parents. From what I read, Kevin was a nice guy I wished to have called friend.
Respectfully,
Lori Rehfeldt
Debbie McCabe-Ehmann
January 13, 2002
Dear Beth, you are in our thoughts and prayers, love the McCabe family
Missy
January 9, 2002
May God bless you and your family. I pray for good health for you and happiness for your children. You and your children are in my prayers.
Jonathan Johansson
January 8, 2002
Kevin will always be remembered!
cc n
January 8, 2002
I just watched your story on Good Morning America and felt compelled to write. May God bless you and your beautiful children and keep you healthy and strong.
Mount Alum
January 4, 2002
It's hard to imagine the magnitude of your loss. Kevin will always be fondly remembered from his days at the Mount.
Teresa Jahn
December 18, 2001
We are deeply sorry for your loss of Kevin. Beth, may your health continue getting and staying better. May Kevin's life and love live on through all of his loved ones.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Mount Grad
December 8, 2001
Kevin - You were one of the better persons I ran across at the mount. We'll miss you.
December 7, 2001
"... Beware of sadness. It can hit you. It can hurt you, take your soul and what is more. It is not what you are here for..."
George Harrison, " Beware of Darkness " (All Things Must Pass)1971.
Debbie Jaffie
November 30, 2001
Kevin was a treasured LIRR "buddy".
Those of us who took the 7:12 miss him dearly.
Kevin Murphy
Ronald Ryan
November 27, 2001
Family and friends lovingly remember Kevin Murphy for his kindness and easy laugh. His devotion to his wife and children and his profound faith were the cornerstones of his life.
Kevin James Murphy was born on September 1, 1961 to Sally and Tim Murphy. One of five siblings, the story of Kevin’s growing up years in Smithtown, New York is peppered with stories of ski trips and practical jokes. Kevin reveled in the retelling of these stories. Obvious to even a casual acquaintance, was the strong bond shared by the Murphy children.
After graduating from St. Anthony’s High School, Kevin entered Mount St. Mary’s College in Maryland. He studied business for four years. Kevin graduated in 1983 and pursued a career in the insurance industry. He worked for such firms as Travelers, MetLife and the Fireman’s Fund.
On September 1, 1988 a chance encounter changed his life forever. Kevin met a young woman named Beth Ryan. He told his friends that he had met the girl of his dreams and he proved his point two years later when the two married. From that moment on, the focus of Kevin’s life was his growing family. The couple’s first child, Connor James was born in 1994 followed by the arrival of Caitlyn Brooke in 1997. The young father made his children his top priority. Soccer games and dance recitals were welcome weekend activities. Every night the children eagerly awaited his arrival. As he walked in the door, both children would fly into his open arms, content in the knowledge that their “night time routine” was about to begin. Bath time and story time with Dad helped connect this little family in a way that is all too rare in our world today.
In 1998 Kevin went to work for Sedgwick James of New York in Manhattan. A year ago Marsh McLennan bought out the company. Recognized as having great potential, Kevin was kept on by Marsh McLennan who moved his office to the 100th floor of the World Trade Center’s Tower One. Kevin was proud of his work and enjoyed giving both family and friends tours of the building. His favorite aspect of his office was his window that overlooked the Statue of Liberty.
Since September 11, 2001 Beth has had to face the fact that her best friend and partner is no longer here to meet life’s challenges with her. She finds herself stepping in to try and do all the “Dad” things; often asking herself “what would Kevin do?” She comforts herself and Connor and Caitlyn with the belief that they have a very special guardian angel in heaven now. Indeed all who knew Kevin Murphy will always carry his spirit in their hearts.
Michelle Brosnahan
October 12, 2001
For Jack;
My husband Jesse Floyd and I are so sorry to hear about your horrible loss. Please know that you are in our prayers.
With fond thoughts of the 200's, and, of course, WWPV.
Michelle Brosnahan
SMC Class of 1988
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