Christian 08
Official Obituary of

Joseph Andrew Murphy Jr.

June 14, 1940 ~ August 9, 2025 (age 85) 85 Years Old
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Joseph Murphy Jr. Obituary

Joseph Andrew Murphy, Jr., a man of unwavering faith and boundless love, passed away on August 9, 2025, after a short battle with cancer.  Born on June 14, 1940, to Joseph A. Murphy Sr. and Elizabeth R. Murphy, Joseph's life was a testament to his strong Christian values and his commitment to his family and community.

Joseph was a beacon of hope and a pillar of strength to his beloved wife, Sharon, and his children, Marybeth Stacharowski and son-in-law Gary, Joseph P. Murphy, Tina M. Belluomo and son-in-law Mark,  Michael S. Murphy, Ryan C. Murphy, and James A. Murphy and daughter-in-law Casey. His legacy of love continues through his cherished grandchildren, Scott A. Stacharowski, Ashley M. Belluomo, Kyle A. Belluomo, and Daryl K. Murphy. He was a loving brother to M. Susan Murphy, Jane McInnes and brother-in-law Thomas, and Edward Murphy, and many nieces and nephews. Joseph was preceded in death by his parents and his dear wives, Mary and Martha Murphy, who now welcome him into eternal rest.

In his professional life, Joseph was a respected mortgage banker, known for his integrity and dedication. His career was marked by a deep sense of responsibility and an unwavering commitment to helping others achieve their dreams of home ownership.

A man of deep religious conviction, his faith was the cornerstone of his life.  Joseph volunteered regularly, delivering communion to those who could not attend church service, embodying the Christian values of service and compassion.

His nearly 50 year membership in Alcoholic Anonymous was a source of strength, not just for himself but also for the many lives he touched with his experience, strength, support and hope.

Joseph's love for the simple pleasures in life, like a round of golf on a sunny day, was infectious. His laughter on the links was a familiar sound to his friends and family, who will miss his joyous spirt and his kindhearted teasing.

Above all, Joseph was a loving husband, a loving father, and a loving grandfather. Joseph's generous spirit and loving nature were evident in the way he cherished and nurtured his family.

Those who knew Joseph will remember him as a faith-filled, loving, and generous man. His warm smile and kind heart touched the lives of many, leaving a legacy of love and devotion that will be felt for generations to come.

As we bid farewell to Joseph Andrew Murphy, Jr. we celebrate a life rich in love and guided by faith. His journey on earth may have concluded, but his spirit soars in the heavenly realms, where he is surely greeted with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant". Though he will be deeply missed, his memory will forever be a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing this remarkable man.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Community Action Council of Howard County for the Food Bank https://cac-hc.org/   or the American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org/ in memory of Joseph A. Murphy.


Services

Memorial Visitation
Friday
August 15, 2025

6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Harry H. Witzke's Family Funeral Home
4112 Old Columbia Pike
Ellicott City, MD 21043

Mass of Christian Burial
Saturday
August 16, 2025

11:00 AM
St. Alphonsus Rodriguez Catholic Church
10800 Old Court Rd.
Woodstock, MD 21163

Interment
Saturday
August 16, 2025

12:15 PM
St. Alphonsus Rodriguez Church Cemetery
11011 Old Court Rd.
Woodstock, MD 21163

Donations

Community Action Council Howard County
Web: https://cac-hc.org

American Cancer Society
P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City OK 73123
Tel: 1-800-227-2345
Web: https://donate3.cancer.org/

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