Dennis Michael Murphy was born February 27, 1942, in Nyack, New York, to Thomas and Rosemary Murphy and was baptized within the first year of life. He attended grades 1-12 at South Kortright Central School and continued his schooling at State University of New York (SUNY) at Delhi. He worked in the financial industry.
On June 26, 1976, Dennis was joined in holy matrimony to Gloria K. Griswold by the Rev. Henry Fingerlin. Dennis confirmed his Baptismal faith on January 8, 1978, and was a member of Shepherd of the Hills until his death on March 17, 2024.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, one sister, and three brothers. He is survived by his wife, Gloria; two stepdaughters: Shelly Lawton and Melany Hunt; a granddaughter, grandson, and great-grandchildren; one brother, Jerry Murphy; and nieces and nephews.
Dennis had a great love of music—Beethoven, opera, and choirs, to name a few. He frequently attended operas and churches with large choirs. He also enjoyed being a member of several choirs at Shepherd.
Other enjoyments for Dennis were basketball, football, and baseball. Baseball was his favorite. He loved playing basketball and baseball in school.
Dennis was involved at Shepherd beyond Bible study and choir. He had the privilege of taking the first shovel of dirt when Shepherd broke ground for the school and gymnasium. He also contributed many hours to building the great wall fence on the property.
Dennis was a family man. He loved Gloria, his wife of 47 years. He had a deep, quiet love of his stepdaughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He missed his brother and nieces and nephews living back east. He had a very dry and quirky sense of humor, loved by many and especially by Gloria!
Above all, Dennis loved God and His Word. He was so pleased to attend his first Bible study with Pastor Fingerlin. He embraced the Word and attended Bible study for many years until he became too ill. He also loved small group Bible studies.
One of Dennis’s favorite Scripture passages:
I sought the LORD, and He answered me and delivered me from all my fears.
Those who look to Him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed.
Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good!
Blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!
Psalm 34:4, 5 & 8
The memorial service Dennis Murphy is Saturday, July 27 at 11am at Shepherd in the Sanctuary. There will be a noon luncheon reception to follow in the Parish Hall. The inurnment will be on a separate day with family only.
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