EASTPORT – William J. Murphy, born June 12, 1918, in New York City, died Dec. 27, 2004, at the Togus Veterans Hospital, after an extended illness. Bill Murphy was part of Tom Brokaw’s “Greatest Generation.” He confronted and overcame great obstacles during the “Great Depression,” volunteered and served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during World War II, and went on to have a distinguished career as a Contract Procurement Officer with the U.S. Federal Government. With his beloved wife, Marie Murphy, they raised three children, Bill, Robin, and Brian. In addition to his children, he is survived by eight grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Even after retiring in Eastport, Bill continued his exemplary public service by working with the Washington County Community Action Agency, helping to start the rural youth corps, and assisting in the building and funding of its first youth center building. Bill also played an influential role in the start of Eastport’s first ambulance corps and helping it to attain certification. He sang in the choirs at Eastport’s Catholic churches, and was an active member of the American Legion, VFW, and Eastport Historical Society. Throughout his life Bill believed in the importance of community, public service, and helping people. He will live on through the lives he has touched. A memorial service to honor and recognize Bill Murphy will be held in Eastport this Spring. Details will be announced in the Bangor Daily News and the Quoddy Tides. For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to The Veterans Administration, Geriatrics and extended care, Togus, ME 04330.
WILLIAM J. MURPHY
