Edward H. Murphy, 79, died peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Son of Edward H. Murphy Sr. and Gertrude (McMahon) Murphy, Ed was born and raised in the Bronx, New York. A talented student athlete, he graduated from Mount Saint Michael Academy, Class of 1964, where he was a member of the varsity hockey and football teams. He continued his studies and achieved his undergraduate degree from Fordham University, Class of 1968, and a doctorate in economics from Rutgers University.
Ed began his professional career as a policy analyst for the Social Security Administration. He would later enjoy success and leave an indelible imprint through his 40-year career with the American Petroleum Institute, from where he retired as senior executive.
Blessed with a brilliant mind, Ed was a lifelong learner and voracious reader. He was a man of many talents, hobbies, and interests, with great appreciation for art, nature, horses, and the outdoors. Accomplished in all his hobbies, Ed enjoyed fishing, canoeing, horseback riding, and driving his tractor. Above all, he was a devoted family man, loving husband and father. In retirement, his greatest joys were spending time with his children, grandchildren, and his loving wife.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Margaret (McCarthy) Murphy; their children and spouses: Kristen; Kara Saranich and David; Brian and Lynsey; Shannon Dandridge and Norman; and nine adoring grandchildren: Brendon, Ethan, Meghan, Simon, Reid, Claire, Cole, Ayla, and Greyson. He leaves his siblings, Michael, Sue, and Beth Meagher and Ken; daughter-in-law, Kathy; generations of nieces, nephews, extended family, and many dear friends. He was predeceased by two sons, Michael and Preston, and a brother, James.
Calling hours were held Wednesday, March 18, in the Philbin-Comeau Funeral Home, Clinton. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Thursday, March 19, at St. Theresa the Little Flower Church, Harvard. Burial followed in St. John’s Cemetery, Lancaster.
Ed Murphy viewed charitable giving as a lifelong privilege, and supporting those in need was a deeply held value. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Edward H. Murphy to: Mount Saint Michael Academy, 4300 Murdock Ave., Bronx, NY 10466, Edward H. Murphy Ph.D. ’64 Memorial Fund, or to Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry, 234 Barnum Rd., Devens, MA 01434. Online condolences may be placed at www.philbin
comeaufh.com.