E. Morgan Murphy, of Warwick, Rhode Island, passed away at home on March 28th, 2025. As a Vietnam combat veteran (1968-1969), Morgan was exposed to Agent Orange; despite his great perseverance and steadfast fight, he succumbed in his final battle against service-related cancers. Peacefully, and settled into the comfort of home, Morgan was surrounded by his loving wife, Carol, devoted family members, and dear friends.

As the eldest son of the late Eugene V. and Julia (Geary) Murphy, Morgan grew up on the Eastside of Providence, describing his childhood as truly joyful. He attended Holy Name School, Hope High School, and studied at the University of Washington. After the loss of his father when he was 12 years old, he strived to help his mother and support his four siblings. Morgan sometimes referenced these years as critical in becoming a “jack-of-all-trades,” developing a skill set and a work ethic he enjoyed and felt proud of.

After serving in the United States Army, Morgan was eager to begin his career in the building supply industry, inspired by his father’s professional background. He co-founded the Trinity Building Supply Company in 1977, transitioning in 1992 to the food service industry, creating “Café Such a Bagel, Inc.” Many exciting years were spent with Carol, building the business beyond the mainland and onto the main street of Block Island commerce, always with a positive demeanor and solid work ethic. Rounding out his career, Morgan acquired “Countertop Solutions,” a home remodeling business, which reflected his creative interest in home design. In his final days, one of his favorite places to relax and rejuvenate was his very own designed sunporch, where he welcomed the frequent flyer birds dropping by, soaked up the sun, and the quiet tranquility of his garden.

Morgan was an easily lovable person with a genuine sense of self that could always put you at ease. His ability to listen and “meet you where you’re at,” encouraged innovative outcomes. An accomplished sailor, Morgan recalled adventurous sails to the Caribbean, but was equally at ease clamming in Block Island’s Great Salt Pond, his bounty of homemade New England clam chowder famous among family and friends. He was the consummate golfer, living for the finesse of the stroke and the shared laughs on the green. And, of course, he was consistently a ruthless Backgammon opponent who would never turn down a chance to play. Morgan’s positive sense of the world and his insightful enjoyment of the “ups and downs” of life, truly blessed us all with the privilege of knowing the devoted husband, loving dad, doting grandfather, and the ever-cool brother, uncle, friend, and deeply cherished mentor.

Described by family and friends as endearingly upbeat, Morgan had an electric energy about him and generously shared his love of life with others. In knowing Morgan, one can’t help knowing the importance of living life to its fullest and the special ability that Morgan had in accomplishing that.

Morgan is survived by his beloved wife, Carol (Williams), of 39 years, daughters Marylee Verheggen, Jean Thurston (Bruce), Bryana Rosario (Alex), and grandchildren Ella and Lilly Verheggen, Laura and Eve Thurston, Porter, Charleston, and Morgan Rosario, sister Judith Evans (Ned), and brothers Robert Murphy (Cynthia), Paul Murphy (Marilou), and many much loved nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister, Linda Thompson.

Calling hours will be held on Friday April 4, 2025 in the W. RAYMOND WATSON FUNERAL HOME, 350 Willett Avenue, Riverside from 3-7 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday April 5, 2025 in the Christ the King Church, 180 Old North Road, Kingston at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Gary Sinise Foundation, PO Box 40726, Nashville, TN 37204 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105 would be deeply appreciated.