John Emmett Murphy

In Loving Memory of John Emmett Murphy

John Murphy, a lifelong resident of Groton, Massachusetts, passed away on Wednesday, July 30th, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born into a family deeply rooted in Groton, John was the fourth generation to call the town home, and proudly continued the legacy of the Murphy Plumbing Company as a master plumber and master gas fitter, and then later the Groton plumbing inspector. He was appreciated for his integrity and work ethic.

John was known for his quiet strength, boundless energy, quick witty one liners, and his unforgettable laugh—a laugh that would fill a room and lift your spirits instantly. His iconic beard and gentle presence made him a familiar and comforting figure to many.

Above all, John was a devoted husband, a proud father, a loving son and brother, and a true friend to all who knew him. He coached youth soccer and basketball, led camping trips with the Boy Scouts, and found joy in every moment spent with his children. He was a black belt in Tae Kwon Do, an avid outdoorsman, and never happier than when fishing, hiking, hunting, canoeing, skiing, biking, traveling, or camping with his family and friends.

His commitment to the community ran deep. He was a Melvin Jones Fellow and lifelong member of the Groton Lions Club. He spearheaded the Lion's plant and bird seed annual sales. He gave back in quiet, meaningful ways that left lasting impacts. He had a rare ability to make people feel seen, heard, and loved.

John was a member of the committee that started the Groton Road Race years ago. He and his daughter sang in the community Christmas concert for a few years.

Though Alzheimer’s slowly took his memory, it never dimmed his light or the love he gave so freely. John lived a life defined by strength, humility, kindness, finding joy, story telling to make people laugh, and deep family roots. His smile that lit up his face will be remembered by all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love and a community better for him having been part of it.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Karen, son Brian Murphy, spouse Krystle, of Redmond, WA, daughter Laurel Rossiter, spouse Brian, of Groton, daughter Caitlin Jack, spouse David, of Truckee, CA, and his sister, Dorcas Brule of Littleton, MA, as well as numerous cousins. He adored his grandchildren: twins Sasha and Alexis in Redmond, Montana and Sawyer John Rex in Groton, and Ellie and James in Truckee. He joins in peace his parents, David Jr. and Dorcas Myrtle Murphy, and brother David Murphy the III.

A celebration of life will be held in November, and in lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in honor of his memory be made to:

Hilarity for Charity (HFC), a nonprofit organization that supports caregivers and their loved ones with dementia

https://www.donatehfc.com/give/217798/#!/donation/checkout

or

The Better Day Adult Social Day Program

https://betterdayprogram.org/donate