John "Jay" V. Murphy

John “Jay” V. Murphy, Jr., 76, of Groton, MA, passed away unexpectedly on March 25, 2024, at Nashoba Valley Medical Center surrounded by his loving family and friends. Born April 12, 1947, Jay was the son of the late John Murphy Sr. and Nathalie (Mello) Murphy. He is survived by his wife Leah, his daughter Brooke, and her husband Alexander Torres, as well as his grandson Xander, his son Brock Riley and his fiancé Danielle Crawford, his brother Victor and his nephew Grant and his wife Kathleen Murphy, his brother David and his wife Ann Murphy, his sisters Lorraine Jernstrom and Karen Tivnan, his father and mother-in-law James and Valerie Flynn, his brother-in-law James and his wife Tracy Flynn, his sister-in-law Kelly Lafferty, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Jay was an accomplished musician. Jay attended the University of Miami where he obtained a Master’s degree in Music Education. He joined the Miami Hurricane’s Chorale ensemble which ignited his love for music, teaching, and performing. Jay sang at Tanglewood, The Boston Pops, Boston Symphony Orchestra, The Jackie Gleason Show, and Carnegie Hall with the Miami Hurricanes. He later became the soulful voice, and driving force behind the McMurphy’s band, alongside his longtime friend, drummer, and band brother, Wally Welch. Jay captivated audiences with his larger-than-life stage presence and booming voice.

In addition to his musical pursuits, Jay was a dedicated teacher, sharing his love of music with countless students over the years in the Lowell Public School System and beyond. His guidance and unwavering encouragement inspired generations of musicians to find their own voices and pursue their musical talents. As a mentor to many, he went out of his way to help anyone that showed talent and interest in his beloved music.

What Jay loved the most was spending time with his family and friends, especially Leah, the love of his life and partner of 20 years. All were invited to join the party behind their Cape house where friends and family gathered around the fire making memories to last a lifetime. He was an avid swimmer and loved spending his summers on Cape Cod where he entertained all season. Jay beamed with pride while cheering Brock on as he played baseball from Little League to the Pro’s. Watching Brock play for the Chatham Anglers and Salem State University was something he always bragged about. He was honored that Brooke followed in his footsteps to become a teacher, and was even prouder of the wonderful mother she had become to his beloved grandson Xander. Jay was always the life of the party, ready with an animated joke or story. And did we mention that he graduated from the University of Miami? (IYKYK) Jay and Leah loved their many trips to Florida to visit his cousins Alyson, Guy, and Jono as well as the many family vacation cruises. Jay loved Boston Sports, especially his New England Patriots. He loved reading, long walks with his dogs Roxy and Bianca, gardening with Leah, watching Jeopardy, and spending time together at their Cape house.

Jay’s life was a harmonious blend of passion and purpose. He leaves behind a legacy of music and inspiration. Though he may have played his final chord, his music will echo in the hearts of all who were touched by his talent and generosity. May his soul find eternal peace, and his melodies continue to inspire and uplift for years to come.

Family and friends will gather to honor and remember Jay’s Life  on Sunday, April 7, 2024, from 4:30-7:30 pm at the Badger Funeral Home, 347 King Street, Littleton, MA.