Donald W. Murphy

1925 - 2022

Donald William "Bill" Murphy was born on May 9,1925 in Harrison NY to Arthur G. and Ethel Harris Murphy. He was the youngest of six children. He is preceded in death by his first wife, Jean Patricia McDonald Murphy and by his parents and brothers Francis and Robert as well as his sisters Ethel McGrath and Jeanne Hoffman. He is survived by his wife, Ada Lou Rivers Murphy and his sister, Alyce Gilroy.

Bill married Jean Patricia McDonald of Mount Vernon, NY on Dec 30,1950. Together Bill and Jean have seven children: William A. Murphy (Kimberly); Michael J. Murphy (Valinda); Patricia A. Condron (Mark); Peter J. Murphy (Della); Mary M. Saglimbene (Rich); Joseph P. Murphy (Chris) and Gerry L. Kennelly (Keith). Bill and Jean have 18 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. Bill and Jean lived most of their life together in Emerson, New Jersey. They moved to Langhorn, PA in 1992 where they lived for eight years. In December 2000, Jean preceded Bill in death.

Bill graduated from Fordham Preparatory School and Fordham University in New York. He served two years in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He worked for Diebold bank-equipment company for 30 years as a salesman in the New York and New Jersey area. He also worked for Cutler Industries selling ATM kiosks internationally for five years.

In June 2001, Bill married Ada Lou Galigher Rivers of Virginia Beach, VA. Bill and Lou lived in Virginia Beach, VA in the summer and Hobe Sound, FL in the winter for many years. Most recently they settled in Virginia Beach.

Always quick with a joke, Bill had a keen sense of humor. He is famous in his family for crafting poems about his loved ones. Singing, writing, and reciting were among his many talents. In his early 90's, Bill penned his autobiography; "A Charmed Life."

Bill has been a Believer in God, Student of Life, Soldier in Time of War, Loving Brother, Father, Grandfather, Great grandfather, Adoring Husband, Friend to ALL, Generous Spirit, Devout Catholic, and a Member of the Church of the Holy Family. His deep faith has been a source of inspiration for many.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 on Tues. Apr. 26 at Church of the Holy Family. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to Genesis Mission Bible Training Center, PO Box 869, Northport, AL 35476. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com