James Malcolm Murphy Jr.

1942 - 2024

James Malcolm Murphy, Jr. died on March 5, 2024 following a short illness and stroke. Born to James Malcolm Murphy and Josephine Whitby Murphy on February 21, 1942 in Petersburg, Virginia, Jim was an "Army brat" who spent his childhood everywhere, from Paris to Okinawa to Richmond. He graduated from Williams College, which he loved. He was convinced it was the best school in the country, with only one fault: the cold weather. As a result, he did his graduate work in sunny Claremont California, where he earned masters and doctoral degrees in Government. He also met his future wife, Anne McCully, in the school library.
Jim and Anne moved to Washington, DC, where Jim worked for several federal agencies before joining the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, Executive Office of the President. His 30+ years negotiating trade agreements at USTR were a perfect job for him, because he loved to argue, and could outlast almost anyone at the table. He also loved to eat; his favorite job, Assistant USTR for Agriculture, "required" him to sample the food and wines of the host country while arguing against trade barriers.
He used his negotiating skills at home as well, arguing with city and hospital officials to keep commuter traffic off neighborhood streets, and with vendors about the amount of discount he deserved. The beach and the Appalachian Trail were two of his favorite places; lounging with family (especially his daughter) and friends for teasing and discussion were favorite activities.
Jim was predeceased by his parents and is survived by his wife Anne, daughter Mary, son-in-law Steve Fisher, and many cousins, in-laws, and friends. A memorial service will be held May 11 at 2 p.m. at St. Columba's Episcopal Church, 4201 Albemarle St, Washington, DC. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to So Others Might Eat, DC Safe, or another charity of your choice.