Thomas T. Murphy

Visiting hours will be held Sunday evening from 4-8 PM at the Alexander F. Thomas and Sons Funeral Home 45 Common Street Walpole.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 11 AM at Blessed Sacrament Church 10 Diamond St Walpole.  Interment at Terrace Hill Cemetery Walpole, relatives and friends invited. Please, in lieu of flowers, Tom's family has asked you to make a donation to the MGH Cancer Center, C/O Dr. Priyadarshini Pathak, 125 Nashua Street, Boston, MA 02114 . Thank you.

Thomas T. Murphy, known affectionately as Tom to his many friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully on December 30, 2024, in Walpole, after a valiant battle with cancer, specifically cholangiocarcinoma. Born on June 5, 1938, in Charlestown, where Tom grew up, before moving to Hyde Park and then living in Walpole for over 30 years. Tom was a beacon of joy and humor, a man whose presence could light up any room. 

Tom's life was one marked by love, hard work, and an unwavering dedication to family. He was the beloved husband of Carol (Hanley) Murphy, with whom he shared 66 years of marriage, having been united with his high school sweetheart in a bond that stood the test of time. He was a devoted father to his five sons, Timothy and wife Sarah of Bradenton, Florida, Stephen and wife Faith of Duxbury, Michael and wife Kim of Readville, Paul and wife Michelle of Readville, Kevin and partner Polly of Charlestown.  Tom's legacy continues through his fourteen grandchildren and three great grandchildren: Meaghan Coleman, husband Scott and son Nathan, Benjamin Murphy, wife Kathryn and daughter Reegan, Taylor Murphy and son Tommy, Hannah Paparo, and husband Isaac. Shannon, Sean, Matthew, Conor, Kelsey, Nolan, Patrick, Kara, Mia and William Murphy. All their achievements and milestones were his greatest pride. Tom's sisters, Mary Murphy and Ann Barrett, remember him as the loving brother. Tom was the son of the late Francis and Mary Murphy, and his late brother Francis Murphy. Tom’s family was the cornerstone of his life, and his actions and words always reflected the deep affection he held for each member.  

 Throughout his life, he held various jobs, including being a proud member of Local 379 as a teamster. Even in retirement, he continued to contribute to his community with side jobs like snow removal, cleaning parking lots, and window washing until the age of 86, earning him the admirable title of the “Mayor of Cleary Square.”  

Tom's zest for life extended beyond his work. A people person at heart, he was always the life of the party, known for his quick wit and love of telling jokes. His interests were diverse and active; he ran the Boston Marathon twice, played softball for the Charlestown Townies, and enjoyed bowling. Tom also cherished the summers at Hampton Beach, cruises to Bermuda, and any opportunity to spend holidays surrounded by his family. One of his favorite pastimes was opening his pool in April, despite not being able to swim, and welcoming his family to gather there every weekend during the summer. "Papa Murph," as he was lovingly called, was adored by all and found joy in simply being in the company of his grandchildren, who were the light of his life. 

Tom was a fighter until the very end, enduring eight months of weekly chemotherapy with a strength and resilience that inspired all who knew him. His love for his family and his passion for life never dimmed, even in the face of adversity. 

As we remember Tom, we reflect on a man who brought laughter, warmth, and an immeasurable amount of love to our lives. Tom may no longer be at our sides, but his spirit and the memories he created will forever be etched in our hearts. Tom Murphy's legacy is one of unwavering love, boundless energy, and a life richly lived. He will be profoundly missed by everyone fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him. 

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