Lawrence "Murf" Murphy

I believe the relationship between a mentor and mentee is one of the most special and meaningful a person can have. Without Murf, I would not be the designer—or the person—I am today. He taught me the skills I use to pay my rent and fill my stomach—the same skills I will one day use to care for my family. It’s no exaggeration to say that any success I’ve had, and the life I’m able to live, would not be possible without the time and contributions Murf gave me. The gratitude and respect I have...

I remember Murf as the car guy, always working on a car, motorcycle... My sympathies and thoughts to the family. Linda, if there is anything I can do, please let me know. 414-962-5905

I met Murf thru our shared love for beards. I run Beardsconsin Beards out of Milwaukee and he was such a driving force behind the brand. His love for anything bearded grew our friendship well past just face fur. He helped design some things for Beardsconsin which opened up many different conversations and meetups. Always so upbeat and positive. If there was ever someone that you wanted in your corner.there was no better human being than Murf! His timing for a much needed DM, tagging you in a...

I taught with Murf at MIAD. Such a wonderful and creative guy who was loved by students, staff and faculty! He will be missed by everyone at the school.

I would like to say that Murph was a good neighbor.

I was one of Murf’s first students at MIAD. He was an excellent teacher & an awesome mentor. He shared stories about his professional life in a way that was not bragging or talking down, but like a genuine friend helping us relate & prepare to also be professionals. His drawing skills were phenomenal, and many of his students (including myself) have been successful because of their valued drawing skills. He taught us a lot more than to draw & design though. He was a good person, and knowing...

Our deepest sympathies to Linda and family. I remember our morning spin classes at the fitness center and Murf would play Slim Whitman’s Indian love song and always had a story. When I was at the Trout building I always stopped by Murf’s cubicle to say hi or just to talk, he always had a great perspective on our conversation’s. The one that I will always remember is I got to join Murf when he was meeting Willy G at his private office at the HD museum. Murf will be sorely missed by all that...

"Don't let perfect let good enough get away"

Murf was full of amazing stories and phrases that will live on through his students and be taught to, and positively effect, generations of designers. To watch him do what he was passionate about felt electric.

As I sit and remember Murph, I think about the laughs he gave, and the way his energy lit up a room. His vibe was so contagious. His passion for design was impeccable and he wanted us all to share that same sentiment. And you could tell just by the way he teached. As a young designer and as a man it was things he taught me that I can hold onto forever. Great soul, great teacher, great all around human being. Will forever be remembered, revered, and honored through my design career.