Joseph J. Murphy

Joseph J. Murphy (1933-2019 – Age 85)Joe passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on January 22, 2019. Joe was predeceased by his loving wife, Marie and his brother Jim. He is survived by his sister Patricia, his children, Karen Murphy, Joseph Murphy Jr. (Murph), Cathy Bean (Jim), and Paul Murphy as well as eight grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren. Joe was born and raised in West Philadelphia by his parents, Joe and Catherine. Joe proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army and was honorably discharged in 1961. After the army Joe earned his bricklayer’s journeyman license by going to night school and then went to work with his father and brother in the family bricklaying business working in and around the Philadelphia area. Eventually, Joe joined his brother Jim as the co-proprietor of Murphy’s Tavern a 40-year institution on the University of Pennsylvania campus. To generations of Penn students Joe became more than a bar owner – he became a surrogate father. He provided counsel, guidance, and support to countless numbers of young people who passed through the doors of his “Church” at 44th & Spruce Streets. His generosity and compassion for people was legendary – whether it was money for food, a quick loan to help pay a bill, or just help out a friend – Joe never questioned why, only how could he help. Joe supported his wife, Marie, during her courageous battle with cancer and truly missed her when she passed. Joe was very proud of his children, especially the “Murph”. He took great pride in Murph’s accomplishments in the Special Olympics over the years, saving all of his medals and trophies.Family and friends are invited to the celebration of Joe’s life on Saturday January 26, 2019 beginning with a Viewing from 9:30-10:45 AM at Notre Dame de Lourdes Church, Fairview Road, Swarthmore, PA 19081, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM. Interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery in Yeadon Pa. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations in Joe’s name be made to the Special Olympics Foundation.