Michael Thomas Murphy

Michael Murphy June 26, 1944 – November 17, 2024 Lewiston - Michael T. Murphy, Sr., 80, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2024, within the loving embrace of his family at Andwell Hospice House in Auburn, ME. Michael was born in Portland, Maine, on June 26, 1944, to the late Alfred and Priscilla Murphy. He grew up in South Portland and graduated from South Portland High School in 1962. He received his teaching certificate at Gorham State Teachers College and earned his master’s degree in elementary education from the University of Maine. Michael and his wife, Kathleen, were childhood sweethearts. On August 26, 1967, they married at St. John the Evangelist Church in South Portland. They had 57 truly joyful years of the deepest love, happiest marriage and truest partnership that one could imagine. After getting married, Michael and Kathleen settled in Lewiston. Michael began his love of teaching in the Auburn School System. He taught for over 40 years where he positively influenced too many children to count. His students and fellow teachers still remember St. Patrick’s Day every year where he would dress up as the Irish Leprechaun and pass out green Knowledge Jelly Beans. Michael instilled the values of respect, honesty, and hard work not only in the classroom but also in his role as a father. He fathered his sons, Michael Jr. and Matthew, with a deeply caring heart. Michael was a coach, role model, and constant source of support to his boys. His grandchildren—Jordann, Jacob, Meagan, Shea, Ryan, and Riley—brought out his softest side, and he cherished his role as “Grandpa” and “Papa.” Michael’s passions were many: he was an avid fan of the Red Sox, Patriots, Celtics, and especially the Providence College Friars. He passed on his love of golf to his sons, a sport he first learned from his father. He enjoyed playing softball, pickup basketball, and even stoop ball in his youth. Proud of his Irish heritage, Michael and Kathleen made five unforgettable trips to Ireland, reveling in the culture, history, and beauty of the country. The couple also enjoyed winter vacations with their Magic Tree Resort family in Kissimmee, Florida, where they formed lasting friendships. At home, Michael was meticulous about caring for his lawn ensuring always looked like greens on a golf course. Over the recent years, he faced several health challenges including breast cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and leukemia. Being a man of strong character and quiet resilience, he fought these battles with courage and determination, never letting them define him. He was a true warrior. Michael was predeceased by his parents, Alfred and Priscilla, and brother, George Murphy. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Kathleen Murphy of Lewiston; his sons, Michael Murphy, Jr. and wife Pam of Lewiston, and Matthew Murphy and wife Kathy of Westfield, New Jersey; Proud grandfather of Jordann, Jacob, Meagan, Shea, Ryan, and Riley; and his siblings, Deborah Knight of Westbrook and John Murphy of Sanford. The Murphy French Bulldogs, Mulligan and Finnegan, will continue keep his seat on couch warm for him. Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, November 21, from 3:00 to 7:00 PM at the Conroy-Tully Walker South Portland Chapel, 1024 Broadway, South Portland. A Funeral Service will take place on Friday, November 22, at 1:00 PM at the funeral home, followed by interment at Calvary Cemetery, Broadway, South Portland. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Andwell Hospice House, 236 Stetson Rd., Auburn, Maine 04210. Michael will forever be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and friend who left an indelible mark on all who knew him. We ask that on every St. Patrick’s Day, you raise a glass in honor Michael and say “Slainte”.