HOUSE RESOLUTION EXPRESSING DEEPEST CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF MICHAEL J. MURPHY

H8320

2026 -- H 8320
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LC006147
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STATE OF RHODE ISLAND
IN GENERAL ASSEMBLY
JANUARY SESSION, A.D. 2026
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H O U S E R E S O L U T I O N
EXPRESSING DEEPEST CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF MICHAEL J. MURPHY

Introduced By:
Representatives Shekarchi, Blazejewski, Serpa, Chippendale, Fellela,
McEntee, Lima, Shanley, O'Brien, and Kennedy

Date Introduced:
March 19, 2026

Referred To:
House read and passed
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WHEREAS, It is with deep sadness that this House has learned of the passing of Michael
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J. Murphy of Warwick, who departed this life after a courageous four-year battle with cancer. He
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was the beloved husband of Nancy Murphy, with whom he shared forty-seven wonderful years of
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marriage, and the devoted father of Sean Murphy and Karlah Murphy; and
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WHEREAS, He was the cherished brother of William J. Murphy, former Speaker of the
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Rhode Island House of Representatives, and his wife, Stacey, and brother-in-law of Sandra
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Russell. He also leaves behind many loving nephews, nieces, cousins, and dear friends. He was
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predeceased by his parents, John and Dorothy Murphy, and his brother-in-law, Norman Russell;
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and
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WHEREAS, A proud graduate of West Warwick High School, Michael was a member of
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the Wizards State Championship Basketball Team and served as Vice President of the Spanish
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Club, demonstrating early leadership and a passion for athletics and learning; and
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WHEREAS, Michael continued his education at Quinnipiac College, earning a
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Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish, and further enriched his studies abroad at the University of
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Salamanca in Spain, becoming well known for his wit and distinction; and
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WHEREAS, Michael enjoyed a long and successful career as an insurance agent for more
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than thirty years, during which time he operated his own agency, earning the respect and trust of
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his clients and colleagues. Earlier in his career, he was the proprietor of Pat’s Tap in the city of
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Providence, where he gained recognition for his engaging personality and talents as a bartender
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and skilled Blackjack dealer; and

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WHEREAS, A passionate sportsman, Michael was an avid golfer and longtime member
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of Valley Country Club, proudly achieving a hole-in-one during his golfing career and sharing
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many memorable moments on the course with friends; and
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WHEREAS, Demonstrating a lifelong commitment to youth and community, Michael
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was the basketball coach at St. Joseph School in West Warwick for over thirty-five years,
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mentoring generations of young athletes, and was honored as a member of the inaugural class
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inducted into the Rhode Island Catholic Athletic League Hall of Fame; and
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WHEREAS, Known for his positive spirit, Michael was a self-proclaimed gourmet cook
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who delighted family and friends with his holiday traditions, and he was admired for always
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seeing the good in others and living life to its fullest; and
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WHEREAS, The passing of Michael J. Murphy leaves a profound void in the lives of his
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loving family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him, yet his legacy of kindness,
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dedication, and optimism will endure; now, therefore be it
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RESOLVED, That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island hereby
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expresses its deepest condolences to the family and friends of Michael J. Murphy; and be it
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further
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RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to
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transmit duly certified copies of this resolution to the family of Michael J. Murphy.
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