Derek T. Murphy

Murphy, Derek T.
NORTH GREENBUSH - Derek Thomas Murphy, 23, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2024, surrounded by family and friends, at his home, in North Greenbush, after a lifelong battle with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
It is undeniable that Derek made this world a better and brighter place. He was the type of person you meet once in your life, and was an inspiration to many. He was a beacon of love and warmth, with a contagious smile. Derek led by example with unwavering kindness, believing so much in others until they believed in themselves. He had a keen and witty sense of humor, luminous spirit and a positive attitude that could brighten even the darkest of days.
Despite physical limitations, Derek chose to live his life to the fullest – a task that was perfectly paired with his unshakable determination and courage. From traveling to Las Vegas for the Jerry Lewis M.D.A. National Telethon, attending legendary sporting events, being the N.Y. State Goodwill Ambassador for M.D.A. in 2008, to meeting his favorite players on the N.Y. Yankees. Derek especially cherished his time with close friends in the East Greenbush Central School District.
The 23-year–old lived a life that many seek. As such, he offered a piece of advice to others; "Don't take things for granted. If you get an opportunity, within your budget, just do it."
This obituary would surely be remiss if it did not mention Derek's avid love for sports, a world that he found joy, passion and solace in. You could always find Derek rooting for the Mich. Wolverines, the Yankees, N.Y. Giants and Syracuse Basketball.
But, without a doubt, the cornerstone of Derek's life was his family – those related and others that he gained along his journey. They anchored his life, advocating for him and fighting each battle alongside Derek, showing just as much grace, patience and compassion. Because of them, Derek's light and legacy will continue to shine.
Derek was predeceased by his grandmother, Catherine (Kay) Curran ("Nana"); great-grandmother, Eileen Teal ("Nana T."); his amazing uncle, Thomas Teal; and his loyal service dog, Matrix. Derek is survived by his parents, John and Sue Ellen (Curran) Murphy; brothers, John and Sean Murphy; grandparents, John (Jack) Curran ("Papa"), John Murphy ("Pa") and Sharon Murphy ("Shama"); and several aunts, uncles and cousins.
The family would like to give their heartfelt appreciation to Branch 358 Letter Carriers, Dr. Anthony Malone, Albany Medical Center Providers, Derek's personal caregivers and Community Hospice for the care and support they have provided throughout Derek's lifetime.
Family and friends are invited to visitation hours Wednesday, May 15, from 3 p.m. - 7 p.m., at St. Michael the Archangel Parish, 175 Williams Rd., Troy. Family and friends are also invited to attend a Mass in celebration of Derek's life on May 16, at 10 a.m., at St. Michael the Archangel Parish. Interment will be in St. Agnes Cemetery, Menands.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to Double H Ranch (97 Hidden Valley Road, Lake Luzerne, N.Y. 12846), a place that Derek said looked beyond his limitations and treated him like a normal person; or donations can be made payable to the Derek Murphy Memorial Scholarship, P.O. Box 400, Wynantskil, N.Y., 12198.
And while this obituary is far too short to capture who Derek was or how much he means to people, it seems the only fitting way to end this is in Derek's own words, specifically about how he envisions his life in heaven.
"I won't be walking. I'll be running."