David J. Murphy

David James Murphy, 70, of Hampstead, MD a respected public servant, fire officer, and emergency medical services educator, passed away on January 9, 2026. Born August 2, 1955 in Buffalo, NY, he was the son of the late James and MaryAnn (Trimbach) Murphy. Beloved husband of 48 years to Terry A. Murphy.
Mr. Murphy dedicated more than four decades to fire protection and emergency medical services, beginning his career as a firefighter in 1979 and advancing through the ranks to serve in senior leadership roles including Battalion Chief, Division Chief, Acting Assistant Fire Chief, and Safety Director. He was widely recognized for his leadership in EMS administration, field operations, training, and system development.
In addition to his operational service, David was a longtime adjunct faculty member at the Community College of Baltimore County and Carroll Community College, where he taught Basic and Advanced Life Support programs beginning in 1984. He instructed and evaluated hundreds of EMTs and paramedics and was a frequent lecturer at regional and state EMS conferences.
A lifelong volunteer, Mr. Murphy was a life member of the Hampstead Volunteer Fire Company and the Cockeysville Volunteer Fire Company, where he held numerous leadership roles. His commitment to education, mentorship, and public safety earned him multiple distinguished service awards and commendations throughout his career.
He worked with youth groups from various churches and the Juniors at Upperco/Arcadia Volunteer Fire Department and was a substitute teacher at the areas middle and high schools.
Surviving are his daughter, Christine Crawford (Oneil) of Hampstead, MD; son, Matthew Murphy (Megan) of Hanover, PA; grandchildren, Eleanor Murphy, Levi Murphy, Brielle Crawford and granddaughter on the way- Ella; three sisters, Ann Marie Ruppert (Mark) of Hanover, PA, Kathleen Buddin (Chip) of Little River, SC, Mary Colleen Ross of Hanover, PA; brother, Michael Murphy of Chalfont, PA; sister-in-law, Margaret Moreland (Andy) of Tampa, FL, brother-in-law, Robert Sipes (Sandy) of Phoenix, MD, and late brother-in-law George Sipes (Kassie) of Westminster, MD; and many nieces and nephews that loved him dearly.
He is predeceased by his in-laws, Rev. Arthur L Corbin, Sr. (Darce).
Family will receive friends Friday, January 16, 2026 from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm & 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Eline Funeral Home, 934 South Main Street, Hampstead, MD 21074. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, 11:00 am at the Funeral Home. Interment will be in Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Cockeysville Volunteer Fire Company or to the National Fallen Fire Fighters Foundation,