James J. Murphy, III (1948 – 2014)

Written By: Robert Cox

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James J. Murphy, III of New Rochelle, NY died on July 28, 2014 after a brief, unexpected illness.

Murphy was born in New York City on November 28, 1948 along with John T. Murphy, his identical twin brother, to James J. Murphy, II and Julia Murphy.

Julia Murphy passed in 1983. James J. Murphy, II passed in 1993. John T. Murphy passed in 2006.

The entire Murphy family were life long residents of New Rochelle. James was a proud cousin to many relatives near and far and uncle to many nieces and nephews — Kevin Murphy, Lisa Pate, Keri Tremblay, Emily VanDette, John Murphy
Kathleen Murphy (predeceased), Andrew Murphy, Brendan Murphy and Timothy Murphy. James had many cousins including those in The Whittle Family, The McCarthy Family and The Cloonan Family.

He was Godfather to Gracie Marie Murphy.

Growing up in New Rochelle, James served as an alter server, with his brother John, at Blessed Sacrament Church and remained a Blessed Sacrament parishioner until his passing. James graduated from New Rochelle High School.

James J Murphy IIIJames joined the U.S. Navy in 1969, along with his brother John. James served as a radioman and served in Vietnam. He rose to the rank of E4 Petty Officer, 3rd Class.

After receiving an honorable discharge in 1973, James returned to New Rochelle and worked as a stonemason and bricklayer until his retirement.

James Murphy was a proud Catholic. He was involved in many different churches and religious organizations but always considered Blessed Sacrament Church his home away from home.

Murphy was an active member of American Legion Post 8, having served as Treasurer and, most recently, Adjutant. He served as a past Commander for The Catholic War Veterans.

Jim enjoyed kayaking, long walks around New Rochelle and discussing New Rochelle history.

For his nephews, Uncle Jim was New Rochelle and New Rochelle was Uncle Jim, and will be missed by all who knew him but most importantly by his family who loves and adores him.

There will be a Memorial held at American Legion Post 8 on Tuesday August 12th at 7:30 p.m.