Edward "Murph" J. Murphy, 72, of 22 Causeway Street in the Jefferson section of Holden, died surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, January 4, 2007, in the Rose Monahan Hospice Residence, Worcester, after a brief illness.

He was born in Worcester on October 30, 1934, son of Edward F. and Mary E. (McKeown) Murphy, and in 1963 married Joan Gallagher, all of which have preceded him in death. "Murph" as he was known to his friends, was a graduate of North High School and for a time, attended Becker Jr. College in Worcester. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during the Korean War. Upon his return to civilian life, he worked locally for several companies including Wyman Gordon Co. and L.F. Harris both in Worcester and Reed Rolled Thread and Die Co. in Holden; retiring from Reeds 10 years ago. Murph was an avid card player, golfer and a fan of many of the local sports teams. He was known for his quick wit and sense of humor and for his knowledge regarding sports trivia.

He is survived by his four children, Michael P. Murphy, Ryan S. Murphy and Barbara A. Murphy all of Worcester, and Kelley J. Murphy of Jefferson; and two grandchildren, Shauna J. and Edward A. Youssef both of Worcester. He also leaves his step-father of many years, Otis H. Pineo of West Boylston; a brother, Charles Pineo of California; a sister, Pamela E. Jordan of Virginia; and a large extended family of many life long friends.

The funeral service for Murph will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 9, in the Miles Funeral Home, 1158 Main St., Holden. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Calling hours in the funeral home are from 5 to 8 p.m. on Monday, January 8. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.