BANGOR – Joseph C. Murphy, 84, passed away peacefully July 16, 2007, surround-ed by his loving family. He was born June 10, 1923, in Augusta, the son of Thomas Murphy and Agnes Dolan Murphy. Joe graduated from Cony High School, Class of 1941. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps in 1942 and was a member of the 362nd Fighter Squadron in Europe during World War II. After the war, Joe returned to Maine and was one of the original charter members of the Maine Air National Guard. He served proudly until his retirement in 1983 with the rank of senior master sergeant. He married Christina M. Goulette, Sept. 1, 1952, in Dexter. Together they raised their family while residing in Brewer. Joe loved all sports. He umpired Little League for 20 years and was active in the John Bapst and Brewer Booster Clubs. He will be remembered for his knowledge of the game, especially his beloved Red Sox. Above all, Joe will be remembered for his extremely generous heart. His life was defined not by what he was able to attain; but rather by how he gave to others. Joe loved the simple joys in life; his family, especially his grandchildren, patting people on the back, coin collecting, coffee ice cream and chocolate milk. He will be greatly missed by all his buddies. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by brothers, Thomas and Richard; sister, Jane Barrows Gordon; infant daughter, Lisa Eileen; and grandson, Eric Foss. Surviving, in addition to his wife of 55 years, Christina, are his brother, Robert of Augusta; sons, Mike and wife, Rhonda, of Burlington, Ky., Robert and wife, Brenda, of Brewer and Brian of Bangor; daughters, Connie Foss and husband, Glen, of Waterville, Anne Bean and husband, Jeff, of Dover, N.H., Mary Jo Bernado and husband, Rick, of Glenmont, N.Y.; 17 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Relatives and friends are welcome to call 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, July 18, at Brookings-Smith, 133 Center St., Bangor. A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. Thursday, July 19, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Ohio Street, Bangor, with the Rev. Thomas Lequin, pastor, presider. A reception will be held in the church after the Mass. Committal services with military honors will be held 3:30 p.m. Thursday, July 19, at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, Manchester. Those who wish to remember Joe in a special way may make gifts to the Maine Veterans’ Home, 44 Hogan Road, Bangor, ME 04401. Condolences may be expressed at www.BrookingsSmith.com
JOSEPH C. ‘JOE’ MURPHY
