E. Morgan Murphy
Date of Passing:
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.
My condolences to the Murphy family and those who knew Morgan. He will be remembered as a gracious and kind person.
My heartfelt condolences to all of those in Morgan’s life. Beautiful obituary. Carol and Bryana, you will be in my thoughts today and in the days to come.
We were fortunate to have met Morgan, if only briefly, at Matt and Erica’s wedding. In that short time, his warmth, humor, and deep love for his family shone through unmistakably. Our hearts go out to all who knew and loved him—may his memory be a blessing.
Beth and Jay Kilty ( Erica’s parents)
Carol,
So sorry for your loss.
We are so very sorry to hear of the passing of Morgan. My husband Mike worked for him at Trinity. We were pleasantly surprised to find out you both were friends with our cousins Pat and Henry. We got to see Morgan at various family functions. Mike and I had a respect for him and what he stood for. Rest in peace Morgan. To his family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Mike and Terry Viccione
The most heartfelt condolences to Carol, Marylee, Jean, Bryana, and the entire family. I am indescribably sorry for your loss. Morgan Eugene Murphy was a remarkable man and meant so much to so many. For more than 25 years, Morgan was a second father to me. I will forever cherish all that we shared, all that he taught me and all the love he bestowed on our family. I know that all of us will carry him in our hearts forever. Much love, during this difficult time. Raoul
So sorry to hear of your loss, my heart goes out to you and the girls. Although I never met your father it sounds like his life was enriched by having wonderful family. My thought are with you,
Beautiful memories from our summer holidays where Morgan always was present.
To all family we send our condolences and love,
Mascha, Theo, Thomas and Jasper
My sincere condolences to Carol and family. When I think of Morgan I think of his devotion to his family, faith, friends and golf.
I have lost my good friend and golfing partner.
Morgan and I spent a lot of time on the links. His brother Bob, friend Jack and I… enjoyed lots of laughs and comradery over the years.
He was always available to help with my many charitable interests ..the DaVinci Center for Community Progress, my community service gardens and charitable fundraising events.
He never said no.
Even when his health issues slowed him done he was always available to help.
I loved to listen to his stories about his business adventures, I told he should write a book ..Morgan’s Memories.
He adored his wife Carol and cherished his children and grandchildren.
I know he is in Heaven, scouting out courses for his buddies and finally making ALL his short putts.
He served his family and country..
Bryana Alex and entire family my prayers are with you all. Such a wonderful man. Love you all and thinking of you.
Carol and family. Our deepest condolences on Morgan’s passing.
I extend my condolences to the whole Murphy clan. Morgan was a heck of a guy. He had a wonderful outlook on life, and I think it was his faith and his family that gave him such strength in spite of the many obstacles he faced.
Over the last few decades we spent a lot of time on the greens, woods, and occasionally in the fairways on many beautiful golf courses. He was a very courageous man and I will miss him very much. RIP, my friend. God be with you and may all of your family be at peace knowing that Morgan will be golfing with the saints in heaven.
Alex & Bryana,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Met Morgan a few times and one thing he made very clear to me was how much he love his family. May his soul rest in peace 🙏🏽
Raul & Iris Rosario
My condolences, love and prayers! Morgan truly had an uplifting spirit!!! We can only hold on to the beautiful
Memories, the happiness and joy in our hearts when our loved one leaves us!
Marylee and Jean, I’m so sorry for your loss. I had the great pleasure of being in the company of your Dad; very loving and caring man. I could see how much he loved his family.
Bryana and Alex. Sorry for your loss . I have the pressure to meet Mr Murphy and he was a very pleasant person. Rest in peace🙏
Such a beautiful text celebrating Morgan’s life and achievements. The life he lived is one to inspire others.
To the Verheggens, Murphy’s and all other family. Sending much light, love and my condolences, from the Netherlands.
Regards,
Thomas.
Bry and Alex,
We are so sorry to hear about your dad. We never had the pleasure of meeting him, but have heard he was an amazing man, he must have been to raise a beautiful, smart woman like you.
Keeping you all in out prayers 🙏🏻
Bryana and family,
I am so deeply sorry for your loss. My love and prayers are with you all. ❤️🙏
Love,
Sara