Paul D. Murphy

Paul D. Murphy obituary, Reading, MA

Paul D. Murphy

Paul Murphy Obituary

Visit the Doherty-Barile Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Service - Reading website to view the full obituary.

Paul D. Murphy, of Reading, born December 26, 1936, passed away on January 24, 2026.

Paul was predeceased by his beloved wife, Patricia Rae (Tardelli) Murphy. He is survived by their cherished children: Paul Murphy and his wife Donna; Susan Williams and her husband Scott; Linda Cook and her husband Paul; Roberta Murphy; John Murphy and his wife Sharon; and Stephen Murphy and his wife Trish. He is also survived by their grandchildren: Sean Williams and his wife Samantha Flick; Conor Murphy; Lindsay Mitchell and her husband Aaron; Brendan Murphy; Stephen Williams; Cady Curtis and her husband Robert; Shaylyn Murphy; Samantha DiLoreto and her husband Corey; Michael Murphy; Kristin Murphy; Holly Murphy and Zachary Murphy, all of whom were his favorites! Paul was a proud great grandfather to Dean Mitchell, Emma Curtis, Sadie Mitchell, and Jack Curtis. Paul also leaves behind his loving companion, Marie Tomasello.

A retired Reading firefighter, Paul was known for his dedication, steady presence, and willingness to help others. He was an avid reader and enjoyed woodworking, often spending his time fixing, building, or tinkering on projects for family and friends. He was known for his quick wit and sense of humor, always ready with a comment or story that brought smiles and laughter to those around him. Paul also enjoyed simple routines, including regular coffee meetups at Burger King with the guys, where conversation and connection were just as important as the coffee. Paul loved to travel and held a special affection for Ireland, a place that brought him great joy. Paul loved tending his gardens, which were admired and enjoyed by all who saw them.

Paul will be remembered for his warmth, his craftsmanship, and his devotion to family and friends.

Family and friends are kindly invited to gather and share memories with his family in the Doherty Barile Family Funeral Home 11 Linden St. READING on Saturday January 31, 2026 from 10 am to 12 pm. Parking attendants and elevator available. 

Please consider donations in memory of Paul to St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital. 

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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