Richard Francis “Coach” “Murf” Murphy

An intelligent, sweet, and caring man with a sharp wit

Richard Francis “Coach” “Murf” Murphy, a life-long Winthrop resident, died on Saturday, October 17, 2026, after a brief illness. He was 80 years old.

Richard was born on July 19, 1946, in Winthrop. He attended grammar school at Saint John’s, followed by Dominic Savio High School and Boston College.

During his life, Richard worked at the Winthrop Golf Club, taught elementary school, and thoroughly enjoyed his time as a dedicated girls’ basketball coach. He loved his cat, Boston Celtics basketball, brain teasers, his daily walks, political discussions, and music.

He never forgot a birthday and unfailingly sent a funny card accompanied by an even funnier note and a Dunkin’ Donuts gift card. Richard was an intelligent, sweet, and caring man with a sharp wit who made many friends throughout his life’s journey. He will be greatly missed.

Richard is survived by his sisters and brothers-in-law, Barbara and William McNeil of Milton and Kathleen and George Moynihan of Amesbury, as well as his nieces, nephews, and their children. He was predeceased by his loving parents, Francis and Helen Murphy of Winthrop. He also leaves behind his beloved cat, Dervia.

The visitation was held in the Caggiano-O’Maley-Frazier Funeral Home, Winthrop on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Richard’s memory be made to PALS Animal Life Savers, 10 Traders Way, Salem, MA 01970 or go to www.palscats.org.