Limerick, Thursday. The vibrant city of Limerick is shrouded in sorrow as it bids farewell to the Very Rev. Canon Murphy, a gifted and distinguished clergyman of St. Munchin’s Parish. The esteemed clergyman’s passing, which occurred today, has cast a pall of inconsolable grief over his lordship Most Rev. Dr O’Dwyer, the clergy, and the entire city.

Canon Murphy, a native of Limerick, received his early education at the Christian Brothers® Schools on Sexton Street. His academic journey continued at the Old Diocesan College in Limerick and culminated at Maynooth, where he was ordained some thirty years ago. His illustrious career included a seven-year tenure as the President of St. Munchin’s College before assuming the role of Administrator at St. John’s Parish.

A man dedicated to both educational and spiritual pursuits, Canon Murphy’s commitment to his calling was unwavering. Beyond his pastoral duties, he played a pivotal role in the Intermediate system and technical instruction. As a Senator of the National University, he contributed significantly to the academic sphere and served as the editor of the “Irish Educational Review.”

Canon Murphy’s life embodied a continuous cycle of active engagement and service to the community. His profound interest in educational matters and spiritual guidance endeared him to the people of Limerick, making his loss deeply felt throughout the city.

The revered clergyman’s final days were marked by a brief period of illness, during which he received care from distinguished medical practitioners, including Dr Blaney from Dublin, Dr Graham, Dr Devane, and Dr Holmes from Limerick. Despite a successful amputation procedure on Tuesday evening, Canon Murphy’s condition deteriorated, leading to his peaceful passing today.

Throughout his illness, the Lord Bishop remained a constant presence by Canon Murphy’s bedside, accompanied by Father Begley, C.C., and Rev. Father Powell, Prior. Meanwhile, churches across the city fervently prayed for the recovery of the beloved clergyman. The news of Canon Murphy’s demise has left the city in deep mourning, reflecting the profound impact he had on the lives of the people he served.

Canon Murphy’s legacy is one of dedication, service, and intellectual contribution. His role as private secretary to the Lord Bishop and subsequent appointment as Pastor of St. Munchin’s showcased his leadership and administrative prowess. The clergyman’s life story reflects a commitment to both the spiritual and educational well-being of the community he served.

The city of Limerick will forever remember the gifted and distinguished Canon Murphy, whose untimely demise leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of the clergy, the community, and the educational institutions he passionately served. As the community mourns, they also celebrate the profound impact he made during his years of service, leaving behind a legacy that will endure in the annals of Limerick’s history.

Evening Herald (Dublin) – Thursday 18 June 1914