Michael J. Murphy

Michael J. Murphy

Entered Into Eternal Rest

Sunday, September 13, 2026

Seaford, N.Y. — Michael J. Murphy, 81, of Seaford, N.Y., passed away peacefully on September 13, 2026. 

A devoted family man, decorated veteran, and active community member, he leaves behind a legacy of warmth, service, and unconditional love. If you knew Mike, you knew he was guided by God, family and service to his country.

Born on February 21, 1945, in Brooklyn, N.Y., Michael was the son of the late Bernard J. Murphy and Regina Mae. He grew up attending West Babylon schools and later studied at the University of Virginia before answering the call to serve his country. As a 1st Lieutenant and Green Beret in the 5th Special Forces, 25th Infantry Division of the U.S. Army, and a skilled paratrooper, Michael served with high honor, receiving the Bronze Star alongside multiple distinctions. Following his military service, he went back to school to earn his M.B.A. at Adelphi University.

Michael went on to build a long career, retiring from Empire City Subway (Verizon). He also utilized his professional talents as a C.P.A. and dedicated much of his time to his community, serving proudly as the treasurer for the Seaford Fire Department and as the president of the foundation at the Knights of Columbus.

On May 26, 1973, Michael married the love of his life, Kathleen Gissaro. Together, they shared 53 years of unconditional love and built a beautiful family. He and Kathy deeply loved to travel the world together, exploring new places side-by-side. Known affectionately as "Pepa" by his grandchildren, Michael was an incredibly supportive, hard-working, and family-oriented husband, father, and grandfather. His children were his legacy, and he cherished the endless memories made on family vacations and quiet days spent at home. An avid reader with a deep passion for history, his kindness radiated to everyone he met, and he was always the first to offer a helping hand. 

His eight grandchildren were truly the light of his life, and Pepa was always the very first one there for all of their milestones and activities. Whether it was Tae Kwon Do, basketball, track, hockey, swimming lessons, hiking, field trips, or exploring new places, he was always right there with a smile on his face and a helping hand. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen Murphy; his loving children, Kristin Kalbaugh (Gary) of Lloyd Harbor, N.Y., and Brian Murphy of Amityville, N.Y.; and his brother, Gary Murphy (Luanne) of East Islip, N.Y. He is also survived by his eight grandchildren—Michael, George, Christian, Cassie, John, James, Anna, and Adeline.

His family prays that he was greeted in heaven by his beloved first-born son, Michael B. Murphy, and his dear sister and brother-in-law, Maureen and Tony Grieco, who preceded him in death.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 3:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

at Charles G. Schmitt Funeral Home (3863 Merrick Rd, Seaford, NY 11783). A Mass of

Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at                   St. William the Abbot Roman Catholic Church (2000 Jackson Ave, Seaford, NY 11783).

Interment to follow at St. Charles Cemetery, Farmingdale, N.Y.