John Francis Xavier Murphy Jr. died at the University of Virginia Medical Center of acute respiratory failure on March 28, 2019.

Born May 1, 1941 in Greenwich Village, New York City, John earned degrees from Iona College (BA) and West Chester University (MA, clinical psychology), and an officer's commission from the U. S. Marine Corps.

Upon retiring from the paper industry, John made his home in the Lexington, Virginia area, actively supporting numerous civic organizations, including United Way Rockbridge (president), Rockbridge Area Transportation Service (president), Brownsburg Ruritan (president, District 1, and zone governor), Rockbridge Area Hospice (board member), the YMCA (board member), and the Sunrise Rotary Club. He loved working with children and served many years as a Youth Literacy reading tutor helping young students develop reading skills and self-confidence.

John loved music, especially jazz, and worked part-time at the Lenfest Center for the Performing Arts. He was an avid reader and passionate student of history, and could frequently be seen engaged in spirited conversations. But it was his quick wit, natural warmth, and positive nature that drew people to him. He never met a stranger. His compassion, strength and jovial spirit will be sorely missed within the community and especially within his large Irish family.

Oorah, John! Rest in peace.

John is survived by his loving wife, Susan Bushnell, and his children, Lorne Murphy (Sophia, Ysobel and Magdalena Echevario), Melissa Murphy (partner, Jeff Tanner), Erin and Charles Murdach (Maxwell, Madigan, and McKinley), Maya and Richard Hunnewell (RJ and Nathan), and Sascha and Jill Simkanich (Alana and Noelle); as well as his sister, Jacqueline Murphy, RSHM; brother-in-law, Charles Perruzzi (Charles Jr., Sean and Mark Alexander); and brother, Peter and Anita Murphy (Peter Jr., Norah and John FX Murphy III).

John was predeceased by his sister, Sheila Perruzzi; by his parents, John FX Murphy Sr. and Gertrude McCoy Murphy; and by his beloved dog, Jake.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to United Way Rockbridge, Youth Literacy at Rockbridge Regional Library or a charity of your choice.