Raymond J. Murphy, age 75 of Willowick, passed away Thursday, April 2nd, 2026 at Hillcrest Hospital surrounded by his family. He was born May 3rd, 1950 in Cleveland to the late Robert and Mary Alice (nee Gorman) Murphy.
Ray was the beloved husband of Betty Murphy (nee Wolff); loving father of Sarah (Ante) Vurbic and Karen Boyce; devoted grandfather of Maria and Nicholas Vurbic, and Michael and Thomas Boyce; brother to the late Robert (Mary Louise-deceased) Murphy, Patrick (Elaine) Murphy, Thomas (Sue) Murphy, James (Kim) Murphy, Sr. Mary Ann Murphy, the late Madeleine D’Alessandro, Daniel (Lori-deceased) Murphy, John Murphy and Elizabeth Murphy; brother-in-law of Carole (Walter) Elbrecht; uncle and great-uncle to many nieces and nephews; and friend to many.
Ray will be remembered for his love and devotion to his family and his sense of humor that never failed to make those around him smile; especially his grandchildren; as well as his attention grabbing whistle and his legendary popcorn.
Ray was a U. S. Army veteran (1970 – 1973). He was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska as a Communication Center Specialist. He served and honored his country, and was an inspiring role model for the younger generations around him.
Ray retired in 2011 after 41 years with the railroad.
Being a big kid at heart himself, his love, laughter and sense of humor will carry on in the hearts of those who love him.
The Murphy family will receive family and friends from 10:00 – 11:00 AM Saturday, April 11th, 2026 at Ss. Robert & William Parish, 367 East 260th St., Euclid. A memorial mass will follow at 11:00 AM at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made in Ray’s name to the Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland, 6085 Parkland Blvd., Suite 106, Mayfield Hts. OH 44124 or the charity of your choice. A private burial will be held at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Jeff Monreal Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Painesville.
Reader interactions
5 Replies to “Raymond J. Murphy”
Sorry for your loss.
My Dear Friend your one liners will be greatly missed!
Dear Murphy Family,
I was heartbroken to hear about Ray’s passing. I can’t imagine the pain you and your family are going through. Ray and Betty ate truly the best neighbors anyone could ever ask for—always so kind and willing to lend a hand. I will always cherish the memories that are in my heart. Especially when I first moved in the girls were so little and they knocked on side door and asked if I had kids. I said no but I have a dog and they said good do you have any treats we can give the dog? So from then on the girls knocked on my door for treats for my dog Kelly.
Please know that even though I moved 3 years ago. I still feel I live next store that will never change.
With deepest sympathy,
The Brunskole Family.
My condolence to you and your family.
Dear Betty & Children, and all our Murphy cousins,
Ray was a sweetheart and we all enjoyed how kind he was & his wonderful sense of humor. We’re sure he received a grand welcome from all of our Irish clan in heaven. He will be truly missed by all who were lucky to know him!
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