David E. Murphy

Everyone knows that one person who is the funny guy, the life of the party—someone who will do anything for anyone without hesitation and ask for nothing in return.

David E. Murphy, 65, a lifelong resident of Pepperell, MA, and most recently a snowbird in Englewood, FL, was that person to many. Sadly, for his family and friends, David made the decision to leave behind the emotional pain he carried on February 16, 2025. He will be deeply missed by all who loved him and considered him a friend.

Born on April 19, 1959, in Fitchburg, MA, to Daniel T. Murphy and Jane (Gosselin) Murphy, David was always a loving presence for his family. He made a point of visiting his parents as often as he could and was a devoted brother to his three siblings, Daniel, Cathy, and Lisa.

David was a graduate of North Middlesex Regional High School from the class of 1977. Following graduation, David served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1977 to 1981, stationed at Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, NC, and Okinawa, Japan. Known for his adventurous spirit, David once defied orders along with his platoon to get tattoos, which led to the story behind his infamous Marine skunk tattoo. He also saved a bottle of sake to enjoy once his daughter was married, a promise he kept.

After his time in the service, David met the love of his life, Lorraine (Haskins) Murphy. They spent their early years in Pepperell, where their love story began. Lorraine was still in high school when they met, and while David wouldn't attend Senior Prom, he did let her drive his 1978 Chevy Blazer to school. The couple built a large circle of friends, enjoying many fun times together, so much so that once led to a memorable moment when David was featured in the Pepperell Free Press for his “Dukes of Hazzard” four-wheeler chase down Main Street.

David was also an entrepreneur, running his well-known welding and fabricating business, Murphy Welding, in Pepperell for almost 40 years. A master of his craft, David was extremely talented and loved helping others. He enjoyed mentoring, Pete and Nick, who became like the sons he never had and they continue to work in the industry today. What many didn’t know was his creativity—David could often surprise those around him with his doodles and his unique ability to breathe new life into old things. He had countless old cars that he enjoyed restoring and cruising around in; his latest being a 1978 Chevy Blazer to match the one he had when he first met Lorraine. It’ll soon return to Pepperell from Florida and continue being brought back to life in his honor.

David and Lorraine married in 1984, spending 41 loving years together. In 1991, when they lived in Brookline, NH, they welcomed their only daughter, Devan (Murphy) Naples, into the world. Fatherhood was one of the greatest joys of David’s life. He loved his little girl more than anything and would do anything for her, like racing home an hour from Lake Winnisquam late at night because she heard a noise in the house. He made sure all of her dreams came true—truly a daddy’s girl.

In the most recent chapter of their lives, David and Lorraine enjoyed five years of retirement together, splitting time between MA and FL. They cherished the sunshine, hosting family and friends, and exploring new places and restaurants. Some of their happiest moments were spent watching the sunset on the beach with a bottle of wine. David loved taking his boat out for some fishing and fun. He also enjoyed being outside in his yard putzing around, gardening, napping in the sun, reading in the pool and playing catch with his grand-dog.

Two years ago, David's title was upgraded to Grampy, a role he cherished above all. His granddaughter, Charlotte Naples, adored him just as much as he adored her. Their special bond included shared jokes about his hat’s whereabouts whenever they FaceTimed.

David is survived by his mother, Jane Murphy; his wife, Lorraine Murphy; his daughter and son-in-law, Devan and Nicholas Naples; his siblings, Daniel (Pam Murphy), Cathy (Bob Robertson), and Lisa (Mike Beard); his granddaughter, Charlotte Naples; several nieces and nephews; and countless other friends and family. He was preceded in death by his father, Daniel T. Murphy.

Calling hours will be held in the McGaffigan Funeral Home, 37 Main St., (Rte. 113) Pepperell, MA on Saturday, March 15th from 2 - 6 PM. David will be laid to rest at Park Street Cemetery in Pepperell, MA, at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations to the Suncoast Humane Society in Englewood, FL in his memory.

From your family and friends, David, thank you for the laughs, smiles, and the love you shared with so many. We hope you’ve found the peace, love, and strength that you so freely gave to others. We love you, always.