Joseph “Joey” Michael Murphy, Jr., 59 of Greenwich, CT peacefully passed away on Nov. 28, 2018. Joseph was born in Bronx, N.Y. on July 6, 1959. Joey, as he was fondly known, was the son of the late Cecelia and Dr. Joseph Murphy.
Joey is survived by his sister, Dr. Barbara Murphy of Huntsville, Ala., his brother Edward Murphy of Chevy Chase, D.C., his sister, Bonnie Gilrane of Greenwich, CT, brothers-in-law, Bruce Tripp, Patrick Gilrane, sister-in-law Donna Murphy and his nephews, Timothy Gilrane, Ryan Gilrane and Michael Murphy. Joey was born with special needs, and grew up in Pelham, N.Y. and Greenwich, CT. The Murphy family and friends provided tremendous love and support during Joey’s formative years and adult life.
Dr. Joseph and Cecelia Murphy were very active in GARC, the Greenwich Association for Retarded Citizens, the forerunner to Abilis, and were instrumental in the creation of the Abilis Greenwich Group Homes including Joey’s Group Home Residence at 163 Elm St. Joey loved football, was a NY Giants fan and helped as an assistant equipment manager at the Greenwich High School Football Team during the 1977-79 seasons. During the 80’s, Joey won numerous medals at Special Olympic in swimming and running and was an avid bowler. He participated in Abilis work programs, activities and enjoyed the close friendships at his Group Home. Joey will be remembered by his family through his joyful manner, his ability to help put life in perspective with his many “Joey-isms” including his penchant to collect key chains, baseball hats, cite 70’s classic rock artists and songs, doodle and borrow shoelaces without the intention of returning. Joey aka the “shoelace bandit,” was an inspiration, kept his family humble and thankful.
The family is very grateful for all of the warmth, love and quality of life provided by the wonderful and dedicated people at Abilis. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Abilis at abilis.us/support-us
