Edward J. Murphy

WORCESTER – Edward J. Murphy, 87, of Worcester, died peacefully in his son's home in Holden surrounded by his family on Saturday, January 31, 2009, after a brief illness.

His wife of 33 years, Olive A. (Costello) Murphy died in 1986. He leaves three sons, Dennis E. Murphy, M.D. and his wife Nancy of Holden, Thomas J. Murphy of Bridgewater, and Edward J. Murphy, Jr. and his wife Kimberly of Rutland; a daughter, Mary Ann Murphy of Worcester; a sister, Margaret Lutz of Shrewsbury; five grandchildren, Caitlin, Patrick, Matthew, Michael and Olivia; his close companion, Anne Brooks of Auburn; and several nephews and nieces. Three brothers, Daniel, John and Frederick Murphy, and two sisters, Helen Masterson and Mary Sullivan, predeceased him. He was born in Worcester, son of John H. and Elizabeth (Brosnihan) Murphy, and lived in Worcester most of his life.

Mr. Murphy was a graduate of Worcester Boys Trade and was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II and the Korean conflict. He worked for the Worcester Public School System for many years, retiring in 1982. He later worked for the U.S. Postal Service in Worcester. He was a member of Our Lady of the Rosary Church, the Disabled American Veterans, Grafton Hill American Legion Post 323 and the Greendale Retired Men's Club. He enjoyed ballroom dancing and spending time with his family and friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend calling hours from 5 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, February 3rd, in the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main Street (Rte. 122A), Holden. The funeral for Mr. Murphy will be held on Wednesday, February 4th, from the funeral home with a 10 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial in Our Lady of the Rosary Church, 23 Fales Street, Worcester. Burial will follow in St. John's Cemetery, 260 Cambridge Street, Worcester. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to UMass Memorial Hospice, 650 Lincoln Street, Worcester, MA 01605.

Website & Guest book: www.milesfuneralhome.com