Thomas Murphy

Thomas Hugh "Tom" Murphy, age 92, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025, in Findlay, Ohio. Born on April 21, 1933, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Tom led a life defined by intellectual curiosity, resilience, and a deep appreciation for learning and family.

He was the beloved son of Ellis James and Catherine (née Doolan) Murphy and grew up in Milwaukee. Tom graduated from Rufus King High School and went on to attend Marquette University, where he earned a degree in Philosophy. He paid his own way through college, a testament to his determination and commitment to education. His studies reflected his lifelong fascination with the human condition and the complexities of thought and belief.

In the early 1960s, Tom began a career in aeronautics during a transformative era for the field. He contributed to the development of the Aerospace Program and NASA during its formative years-playing a role in one of the most significant scientific endeavors of the 20th century.

After his time in aeronautics, Tom and his first wife, Rita Rose (née Hodous) Murphy, returned to Wisconsin to be closer to family and friends. They built a life together in Wauwatosa centered around love and family. Tom worked at the Medical College and Gaarder & Miller before launching his own financial planning business. He began this venture in West Allis and later relocated it to Elm Grove.

Tom and Rita divorced but remained friends until her passing in 2005. Tom met Bette Jo Hammer-Murphy in the 1990s. Together they moved to Findlay, Tom reluctant to leave his beloved home turf of Wisconsin. Bette Jo and Tom enjoyed the same movies and programs, and read some of the same fiction books . Tom was welcomed into the Wells family, where he enjoyed family dinners & cookouts, and interesting conversation. He enjoyed seeing Bette Jo happy in her old stomping grounds again. Tom met Rick through Toastmasters, which turned into a lasting friendship. Tom was grateful to his friend Seth, who regularly brought Tom his favorite cappuccino, and helped around the house.

Tom is lovingly remembered by his wife, Bette Jo Hammer-Murphy; daughters Kathleen (Jeff) Schoo, and Amy (Peter) Bigelow; daughter-in-law Judith (née Gahn) Murphy; grandchildren, Christopher (Christina), Joseph (Veronica), Monica, and Sarah Murphy; stepchildren Nicole Reed and Brent (Steph) Wells; step-grandchildren Karla, Matthew, DJ, Mattie, Madelyn, Isabella, Emerson, and Hudson; cousin Kathleen Paul; sisters-in-law Eileen Murphy and Lois Singer; extended family including Tom (Kathy), Pam Wells (Tony) Paulus, Pam Oman, Jacki Wunderlin; cherished friends Rick, Seth, and Opay; as well as five great-grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and associates.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ellis James and Catherine Murphy; brothers Jon and Jim Murphy; son Dennis Murphy; first wife Rita Rose Murphy; in-laws Joe and Betty Wells; sister-in-law Karen (née Cooke); brothers-in-law Norbert Singer and Terry Dallman; cousins Melanie Doolan-Pryor and Robert Pryor of Great Neck, New York; and nephew David Murphy.

A voracious reader throughout his life, Tom had an insatiable appetite for books spanning philosophy, psychology, religion, politics, historical fiction-anything that deepened his understanding of the world. A lifelong member of Toastmasters International, he valued thoughtful conversation and relished spirited political debates. His sharp intellect was balanced by a warm sense of humor and a kind heart.

Raised Catholic-and practicing for much of his early life-Tom later explored various spiritual paths. He was deeply influenced by Native American traditions after meeting Olney, a teacher who became one of the most influential figures in his life. This spiritual journey broadened Tom's worldview and deepened his empathy for others.

Tom shared a special bond with his parents and enjoyed countless rounds of golf with them as well as with his brothers, son Dennis, and brother-in-law Terry. He adored his much younger sister Mary-born when he was sixteen-and their connection remained strong throughout their lives.

He took joy in life's simple pleasures: homemade meals prepared by the excellent cooks in his life-his mother Catherine, Rita, and Bette Jo-and quiet moments spent reading a favorite book. Brilliant in many respects-grasping complex ideas with ease-he also famously avoided learning how to operate a washing machine. On visits to Amy's home in Burlington, he would walk past her washer anytime he walked through the front door, but was surprised she had one, that he never noticed before.

Tom took great pride in Dennis and daughter-in-law Judy for raising an exceptional family. He admired Kate and Jeff's success building their business from the ground up-and always looked forward to Kate's pork chop suey. He also cherished time spent enjoying home-cooked meals at Amy and Peter's house.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Bette Jo for her unwavering care during Tom's final years. Deep gratitude is also extended to the caregivers at Fox Run Manor-including nurses, doctors, therapists-as well as family members and friends who visited or supported Tom during this time.

A memorial service celebrating Tom's life will be held at a later date. Announcements will be shared via Facebook, online platforms, and email when details are finalized.

May Thomas Hugh Murphy's memory bring comfort to those who knew him-and may his legacy live on through the stories shared by all whose lives he touched.

It does not matter how slow you go as long as you don't stop.

~Confucius

Donations may be made to 'Reading is fundamental' or through any charity of one's choosing.