Paul-Murphy-obit-webMELROSE — Paul R. Murphy Jr., 73, of Melrose, passed away peacefully on April 14.

Paul was born on Sept. 6, 1941 in Boston to Paul and Mary (Lynch) Murphy. Mary passed away tragically due to complications at birth. Paul Sr. later remarried to Kathleen (Dinatale) Murphy who was a loving adopted mother.

Paul grew up in Melrose and graduated from Melrose High School in 1959. He went on to study engineering and was recruited straight out of college to go to work. Paul was a very hard worker, he worked as an engineer at a number of companies including Stone and Webster and Polaroid.

Paul went on to marry the love of his life, Deborah (Laskey) Murphy. Paul and Deborah raised their three children: Paul III, Douglas and Kristen, in Melrose. He was very involved with his children growing up as the president of the Parent Student Association of St. Mary and as the Scout Master for Troop 615 in Melrose. Troop 615 became a very large part of Paul’s life. Serving with the troop for over 35 years, Paul held the positions of Scout Master, Committee Chairman, and was a member of The Order of Arrow, Vigil Level. Paul was a passionate member of the scouts and continued to work with them long after his own children had moved on; he even won the Silver Beaver Award. In addition to the Boy Scouts, Paul helped organize the food pantry at the Levi Gould Building food pantry.

Paul truly cherished his family. Whether it was traveling to go skiing in North Conway, N.H. or spending time at home, Paul’s happiest moments were when he was surrounded by his family. He was especially proud of his six grandchildren.

Paul was the beloved husband to the late Deborah Jane Murphy. He was the loving father of Paul R. Murphy III (Ski) and his wife Christine of Framingham, Douglas R. Murphy and his wife Kariann of Stoneham and Kristen D. Murphy of Springfield. He was the devoted grandfather of Jacquelyn, Douglas Jr., Samantha, Kalib, C.J. and Jacob. He was the caring brother of Barbara Aiello of Wakefield, Suzanne Gray of Halifax, Kevin Murphy of Lawrence and Brian Murphy of Melrose. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 West Foster St., Melrose, on Friday, April 17, from 4 to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Saturday, April 18, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary Church in Melrose.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Boy Scout Troop 615, Melrose.

To leave a condolence message or for additional information please visit gatelyfh.com.