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Lawrence Thomas Murphy, a retired FDNY firefighter and former U.S. Army Military Police Officer, died on Monday, Nov. 18. He was 77.
The East Islip resident is remembered for his decades of service, his unwavering commitment to others, and the courageous battle he fought with a 9/11-related illness.
Murphy was born in Brooklyn, the 10th of 11 children to Ida and James Murphy, according to his obituary. Brooklyn shaped his formative years and it was where he served most of his 28 years with the FDNY.
He spent the majority of his time at Engine 255/Ladder 157, before finishing his tenure at Engine 248 with the 41 Battalion. Before joining the FDNY, Murphy served his country as a military police officer in the U.S. Army.
Following the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, Murphy spent countless hours working at Ground Zero, attending funerals for fallen first responders, and supporting the families of his comrades. Though the experience took a toll on his health, his family recalled how he handled those difficult days with grace, strength and compassion.
During his retirement, Murphy became a beloved figure in East Islip, often meeting new friends at local establishments and even the neighborhood 7-Eleven, his obituary said. Murphy’s hobbies included karate, softball, golf, swimming and painting.
He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Janice; daughters Michael Ann and Jacqueline; grandchildren Brayden, Logan and Shay; and siblings Eileen, William, Mary Kay and John. He is predeceased by his siblings Carol, James, Ida and Patricia.
Funeral services for Murphy are being held on Thursday, Nov. 21, from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m., at the Frederick J. Chapey & Sons Funeral Home, 200 E. Main St. in East Islip. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Friday, Nov. 22, at 11 a.m.
