Paul J. Murphy

Paul Jonathan Murphy of Quincy, passed away on December 14, 2024, surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with Cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer). He was 50. 

Paul was a loving husband to Tara Doherty Murphy, who he enjoyed traveling and listening to live Irish music with. Paul was a proud father to Sarah, Meghan, and Matthew, and told anyone who would listen stories about their many accomplishments. Paul was the ex-husband to Katie Murphy, with whom he shared 21 years of marriage. Paul is survived by his parents, Jean (Magaldi) and Chuck Murphy; his siblings, Chris Murphy (wife Kate) LT Quincy Fire Department, Erin McGrath (husband Kevin), Laura Murphy (boyfriend Paul Riser); and four nieces and five nephews. He is also remembered by many extended family members and friends.

Paul was a Quincy native whose life was defined by his commitment to service. As a dedicated officer with the Quincy Police Department, he made a lasting impact on his community. His fellow officers remember him as the guy you wanted to show up to back you up at a call. Paul proudly served as President of the Mutual Aid Association, as a delegate to the Massachusetts Police Association (MPA), as a member of the Metropolitan Law Enforcement Council (Metro LEC), and was a member of the QPD Honor Guard. After his retirement from the police department, he worked as a social worker for Aspire as a crisis clinician. 

A lifelong learner and graduate of North Quincy High School, Paul was the proud holder of three higher education degrees: an undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice from Saint Anselm College, a Master’s in Criminal Justice from Western New England University, and a Master’s in Social Work from Bridgewater State University. Paul’s love of knowledge extended beyond his formal education—he greatly enjoyed reading and perusing bookstores during his travels, always eager to expand his understanding of the world and beyond.

From the moment he was diagnosed, Paul made it clear to everyone around him that he intended to live whatever was left of his life to the fullest, and for the past nine months, that’s exactly what he did. From attending both the Red Sox home opener and closer, trips to Key West, the Berkshires, New Orleans, or simply spending time with family, Paul faced his illness with remarkable strength and resilience, surrounded by the love of his family and friends until the very end.  

Family and friends are respectfully invited to attend visiting hours on Friday, December 20, 2024 from 3-7 PM at Keohane Funeral Home, 785 Hancock St, Quincy. A Funeral Mass will be held in Sacred Heart Church, 386 Hancock Street, Quincy, on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 10:00 AM. Internment at the Mt. Wollaston Cemetery, Quincy.

Donations may be made in Paul’s memory to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation. If you wish to donate by phone, please call (888) 936-6731 and speak with Laurie Kikel. If you wish to donate by mail, send a check to CCF – In Memory of Paul Murphy, 5526 West 13400 South, #510, Herriman, Utah 84096. You can also visit the link https://curecca.link/PaulMurphy to donate online. 

Paul’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many lives he touched.