Obituary of Kevin Michael Murphy, Sr.

Kevin Murphy, Sr. passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025, at the age of 76, in his home and surrounded by the family he loved so dearly. Kevin lived a full life rich in love, laughter, and community—a life that brightened the world of everyone lucky enough to know him.

Born on May 1, 1949, in New York City to Joseph and Dorothy Murphy, Kevin grew up alongside his brother, Joseph, in the Bronx, NY, where he attended St. John’s elementary school.After graduating DeWitt Clinton High School, Kevin quickly began a career as an elevator mechanic and joined the International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) Local 1. He remained a dedicated member of the union for many years, respected for his hard work, loyalty, and pride in his craft.

Later in life, Kevin made the move to New Jersey and found his true home in the Rainbow Lakes section of Denville. There, he became an integral part of the community, actively involved in the Rainbow Lakes Community Club and serving for many years as a volunteer firefighter. His unwavering commitment earned him the honorary title of “Mayor of Rainbow Lakes”—a role he embraced with pride and affection.

But above all else, Kevin’s greatest joy in life was his family. A devoted father, he set the gold standard with his generous heart, gentle spirit, and constant support. His children were the light of his life, and he never missed an opportunity to let them know how proud he was of each of them.

Kevin also loved to golf, travel, and make memories with friends and loved ones. Among his many adventures, his favorites were trips to Alaska as well as Lake George with his family and friends—moments filled with laughter, nature, and togetherness. A standout among his travels was a visit to Mt. Airy, North Carolina—the real-life inspiration for Mayberry, the hometown from The Andy Griffith Show, a trip that perfectly captured Kevin’s nostalgic and cheerful nature.

Kevin Murphy, Sr. was a man who brought people together, gave more than he took, and left every place better than he found it. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the love he shared so freely. He will be missed more than words can express, and though we are saddened by his loss, we take comfort in knowing that he is finally reunited with his beloved son Kevin, his dear brother, Joseph, and his parents, Joseph and Dorothy Murphy.

Kevin is survived by his daughters, Jeanette Murphy (Corbin VanDeventer), Kristin Murphy, his first love, Karen Murphy, as well as an entire community of family, friends, and neighbors who will miss him dearly.

If you would like to contribute to Kevin’s memory in your own way, please consider making a charitable contribution to the Rainbow Lakes Fire Department, or to the Rainbow Lakes Community Club. Memorial donations can be made via inmemof.org. 

Hours of memorial visitation will be held from 2 to 6 PM on Wednesday, July 30 at Norman Dean Home for Services, with a funeral service to commence at 5:30 PM. Please join us in celebrating the life of this incredible man, and please leave a condolence, share a memory, or light a candle to continue to let Kevin’s light shine!