Thomas J. Murphy

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Thomas (Tom) John Murphy Jr., known to many simply as “Murph.” Tom passed away surrounded by his family on January 25, 2026, at the age of 87.

Throughout his 87 years, Tom touched countless lives with his wisdom, humor, and unwavering spirit of perseverance. He did everything with 100% passion, and he leaves behind not only a legacy of love and joy, but also an empty chair that simply cannot be filled. His impact lives on in all who had the honor of knowing him.

Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Tom married Mary Frances Marti, with whom he shared a life and raised five beautiful children. Tom was deeply passionate about his faith, his family, and his friends. He was truly a man of many, many passions.

Tom loved boating and fishing on the Mississippi River, archery, and hunting with his buddies (aka The Five Feathers). He cherished traveling, both to visit family in Ireland and to places of spiritual significance, including the Catholic pilgrimage site of Medjugorje. He enjoyed frequenting antique stores, collecting meaningful pieces over the years that he proudly displayed in his home. One of his greatest joys was his garden, which he continuously improved and refined over the years. More than anything, Tom loved spending precious time with his family and friends.

A natural and unforgettable storyteller, Tom was famous for his embellished tales. His fishing stories were legendary. The fish always started out at 12 inches, but by the end of the night, it had somehow grown to 22 inches, told with such confidence and charm that you almost believed it.

Tom was preceded in death by his loving parents, Thomas and Irene Murphy; his son, Timothy Michael Murphy, who passed away in infancy; and his sister, Doris Jean Murphy.

He was the proud and devoted father of his surviving children: Kelly (Jim) Ledbetter, Erin (Mike) Roberts, Marti (Gino) Tommasone, and Bridget (Montie) Bowie, whom he lived his life for. He was a very special foster father to Kevin and Mark Comte. A cherished grandfather to ten wonderful grandchildren, Katie, Timothy, Madison, Hannah, Madeline, Mia, Nick, Addison, Kellan, and Avery, and a loving great-grandfather to Shannon, Charlie, Ava, Winnie, Jack, Killian, and Beau.

Tom shared a close and lifelong bond with his sister, Maureen Stover, who stood by him through every chapter of his life. He also leaves behind many friends and extended family members in Ireland and throughout the United States, as well as very special friends and neighbors in Elsberry, Missouri.

Known for his strong will and deep love and support for his family and community, Tom touched the lives of everyone he met. His selflessness, warmth, and generous spirit will be remembered always. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, laughter, and compassion that will continue to live on through his family and friends.

A service to celebrate Tom’s exceptional life will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026 Holy Redeemer Catholic Church 17 Joy Ave, Webster Groves, MO 63119

Visitation: 9:30–11:00 a.m. Service: 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, we encourage you to honor Tom’s legacy with a donation to; St. Joseph’s Indian School PO Box 326, Chamberlain, SD 57326 stjo.org/match

Tom visited this school several times and was deeply involved in providing much needed meals, coats, books, blankets, and backpacks to Lakota (Sioux) children.