Joseph James Murphy

Joseph James Murphy, 51, passed away in his home after a three year battle with cancer. He was the son of the late John and Pearl Murphy of Uniondale, and leaves behind his wife Donna Helene (Gulbin) Murphy, sons Robert Joseph and Joseph Ryan, and numerous brothers and sisters.

Joe was born into a blue collar family of water well drillers where honest work and love for family were the highest held values. He spent his teenage years working as a mechanic at Joe Bock’s garage in Forest City and fixing vehicles and drilling wells with his father and brothers. After graduating from Forest City Regional High School and corresponding vocational school in 1987, Joe spent several years logging before finding a 20+ year career with Linde Corporation as a heavy equipment mechanic. Joe concurrently kept drilling during this time, and his father John asked him to take over the family business in recent years, turning it into Joe Murphy Drilling LLC. He leaves the business to his wife Donna, brother Michael, and two sons who will carry on the Murphy name as a working family.

There are no right words to talk about Joe because he had a strong belief that actions speak louder than words, and his legacy proves as much. His life embodied honest, hard working family values. Even during his treatments he continued turning wrenches and drilling, only stopping when he could no longer physically stand. The sheer determination to provide for his family throughout his illness is a testament to the kind of man he was: selfless, loving, determined, incredibly strong. The unforgettable memory of Joe will continue on in anyone who has ever had the pleasure of being acquainted with him, especially his loving wife of 23 years, Donna, and his pride and joy, Robert and Joseph.

In lieu of flowers, please support the education of his youngest son Joseph. Donations can be made to Joseph Murphy, Honesdale National Bank, Forest City PA 18421.

Viewing will be Friday from 4-7pm, at the Kevin M. Lesjack Funeral Home, 513 Main Street, Forest City.

Masks will be required and social distancing will be observed.

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