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Robert Francis Murphy, Jr. was born on July 17, 1958, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He died on March 18, 2026, at the age of 67, at home, surrounded by his loved ones, following a courageous battle with cancer. Bob attended Mercy Vocational Technical High School where he began a lifelong love of woodworking and carpentry. A naval veteran, he served on the USS Saratoga stationed in Mayport, Florida during the late 1970’s. Born and raised in Philadelphia, he later settled in Havertown, Pennsylvania where he founded R.J. Murphy, Inc., his Carpentry, Cabinetry and Design Construction firm serving Philadelphia and the Main Line. Bob was a passionate craftsman and truly dedicated to perfection in every job he touched, down to the tiniest detail. He owned every woodworking tool known to man and was always on the search for more to add to his collection. He spent many happy hours designing and crafting in his shop anything from a book case with fluted columns to intricate mouldings to a “simple” table with varying wood inlays. Bob was always willing to help a friend in need or support a noble cause. He loved discussing politics and listening to the opposing point of view. He was a great cook and easily could have been a chef if he had not followed his heart into carpentry. His salmon cakes, pasta sauces, meatballs, and roasts were legendary. Bob was proud of his Irish heritage and traveled to Ireland more than once. One trip even had him bring back of box of dirt just so his father could sprinkle it in the backyard to have a bit of the Emerald Isle in Philadelphia. Bob was infamous for the variety of nicknames he came up with for his nieces and nephews, his pets, and of course, his children. A father later in life, he adored his two daughters and was blessed to watch them grow into the lovely young women they are today. He will be missed beyond measure and our love for him will remain eternal. Bob is survived by his wife of 27 years, Madeline (nee Stairiker) and his daughters, Rory and Caitlin. He is also survived by two sisters, Gerri Stinziani and Barbara Miller, four nephews, three nieces, two great nephews, and two great nieces. Brother of the late Joseph, and Jean Helm. Son of the late Robert F. Murphy, Sr. and Anne V. Murphy. A viewing will be held at Presentation BVM, 204 Haverford Road, Wynnewood, PA on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 at 9:00 am and a Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 10:00 am. Interment St. Paul’s Cemetery, 415 East Athens Avenue, Ardmore, PA. Memorial contributions in his name can be made to the Nazarene Fund, P.O. Box 121925, Dallas, TX 75312-1925.

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Robert Francis Murphy Jr.

July 17, 1958 - March 18, 2026