Family and friends remember John Murphy as a hardworking, warm-hearted and deeply respected man whose kindness, good humour and friendly nature left a lasting impression on all who knew him. Late of Highfield, Tramore, formerly of Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny and Leicester, UK, John built a life centred around family, friendship and the people he met along the way. A devoted husband to his beloved Ellen, and a proud father to Marie, Shirley, John and Paul, he was also a cherished grandfather and great-grandfather whose family brought great meaning and pride to his life. Many remembered John as “a true gentleman” with “a smile on his face,” while neighbours in Tramore fondly recalled “always a wave and smile when we passed him.” Those who knew him through Castlecomer remembered his warmth, character and easy way with people, with one tribute describing him as “one of life’s characters.”
The many tributes shared in John’s memory speak of a man whose decency, humour and friendship were felt in ordinary moments that now mean so much. His time working on the roads spreading tar was remembered with affection, and those who knew him through work spoke of the respect he earned through his reliability, good humour and friendly presence. Others recalled the conversations, memories and laughter shared with him over the years, with one tribute saying they would “cherish all our chats and laughs together whenever we met.” Again and again, John was remembered as “a lovely man,” “a wonderful gentleman,” and someone whose kindness never changed. Through every stage of life, whether in Castlecomer, Leicester or Tramore, John remained deeply connected to family, friends and neighbours, and the warmth he shared will remain forever treasured by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Late of Highfield, Tramore, Co. Waterford. Formerly of Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny and Leicester, UK. John passed peacefully with his loving family by his side on Sunday the 17th of May 2026. RIP.
Predeceased by his beloved wife Ellen and his granddaughter Katie-Ellen and all his siblings.
John will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his children Mary (Marie), Shirley, John and Paul; his adoring grandchildren Gillian, Andrea, John, Paul, Adam and Jack; his cherished great-grandchildren Dean, Lily, Alex, Tyler, Ruairí, Ellierose and Séan; his brothers Willie, Joe and his sisters Mary and Chrissie and his daughters-in-law Gretta and Samantha. John will be fondly remembered by sisters-in-law Christina and Mary, all his nieces and nephews, his extended family, relatives, neighbours, and many friends.
The Murphy family would like to thank with great appreciation all the staff in the Oak Ward and Medical Ward 4 in University Hospital Waterford for excellent care and attention John and his family received throughout his time there.
May John rest peacefully.
John’s reposal will take place in Falconers Funeral Home, Riverstown, Tramore X91TW21 on Wednesday the 20th of May from 5pm until 7pm. After which his remains will be removed to The Church of The Holy Cross, Tramore for approximately 7:40pm.
All are welcome.
John’s funeral cortege will walk from Tramore Credit Union/Lodges Corner at approximately 7:30pm on Wednesday the 20th to be received into The Church of the Holy Cross at approximately 07:40pm
John’s Requiem Mass will take place on Thursday the 21st of May at 10am in The Church of the Holy Cross, Tramore, after which John will be laid to rest in St. Declan’s Cemetery. Anyone wishing to attend John’s Mass online can do so by using the link below.
Family flowers only please, donations if desired to Waterford Hospice.
House Private Please.
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