Michael Anthony Murphy, Sr., age 72, of Laurel Springs, New Jersey, passed away on July 9, 2025, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Born on October 28, 1952, in Philadelphia, Michael lived a life full of service, passion, and love for his family and community.
Michael was the beloved husband of the late Kathy Sue (née Harrington) Murphy and currently of Ruth Ann Hunt. He was the devoted father of Tina Murphy, Michael Anthony Murphy, Jr., and the late Khara Murphy; and the cherished stepfather of Jonathan Hunt (Anne Marie) and Melissa (John) McConaghy. He was a proud and loving grandfather to AJ Ochal, Jina Murphy, Arthur Murphy, Kyley Marie Murphy, Roy Hunt, Jackson Hunt, Holden Hunt, and Caiden McConaghy.
The loving son of the late Mahlon Hunter and Eileen Frances (née Grugan) Murphy, Michael was one of four children. He shared a close bond with his family and is lovingly remembered by his brother Bart Murphy. He carried the memories of his late brother, Daniel, and sister, Jo-Anne, with him throughout his life.
Michael was raised in the heart of Philadelphia, where his love for family and community first took root. He later settled in Franklinville, NJ, where he built a life full of purpose and connection. Summers were joyfully spent with loved ones at White Crystal Beach, MD — a place filled with laughter, stories, and the sound of boat engines. In recent years, he made his home in Laurel Springs, NJ, surrounded by the people and passions he cherished most.
A proud United States Army veteran, Michael served his country with honor as a helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War, from May 1971 to January 1972. Following his military service, he built a long and respected career as Parts and Service Manager at Chevy 73 in Berlin, NJ, where he worked for many years. His deep mechanical knowledge and unmatched memory for part numbers earned him the respect of colleagues and customers alike.
Michael had a lifelong love for cars, especially Chevrolets, that was truly a part of who he was. He could talk for hours about engines, model years, or part numbers, and always seemed to know exactly what someone needed to fix a problem. He was a proud member of both The Original Corvette Club and the South Jersey Camaro Club, and he took great joy in sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm with fellow car lovers. Whether it was a classic car show or a weekend drive, Michael’s passion brought people together and left lasting memories.
He was also a dedicated and active member of the Indian Acres Campground community and proudly served as a volunteer with the Franklin Township EMT service, giving his time and care to help others in need.
Relatives and friends are invited to his viewing on Monday, July 14, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM and again on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at the BARCLAY FUNERAL HOME, 208 Maple Street, Clayton, NJ 08312. Funeral service on Tuesday at 2:00 PM at the funeral home. Interment to follow at the Gloucester County Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Williamstown. Sign the guestbook and send condolences at BarclayFuneralHome.net.
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