Charles Joseph Murphy

Charles Murphy, age 88, of West Nyack, NY, passed away on May 5, 2025. He was the beloved husband of the late Maryann Murphy (née Doherty) and a devoted father to Sheila Murphy (Michael McGrath), Charles Murphy (Karen O’Sullivan), Mary Jo De Bono (Joseph), and Patricia Arnold (John). He was the cherished grandfather of Caitlin, Connor, Mary Elizabeth, Johnny, Tara, Danny, and Mary Kate. A treasured uncle to many nieces and nephews, Charlie is also survived by his sister-in-law, Shelia McFadden and close friends, Doreen Smith, Kristin Booth and Carolyn Arias. He was predeceased by his sister, Joanne Olsen.

Born on December 26, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, Charlie served proudly in the United States Army. In June 1962, he married Maryann, and together they raised their family across several areas of New York, ultimately settling in West Nyack, where he lived for 46 years.

A lifelong educator and tireless advocate for learning, Charlie dedicated his career to the betterment of students, teachers, and school communities. He earned multiple college degrees, culminating in a doctorate from St. John’s University. He served as an educational leader and superintendent in districts including Leonia, Eastchester, and Glen Cove, where he was known for his commitment to excellence. In retirement, he continued to shape future school leaders through his work in the Educational Leadership program at Long Island University, where he mentored aspiring administrators.

Nothing brought Charlie more joy than the accomplishments of his grandchildren. He took enormous pride in their academic achievements and extracurricular activities—classroom honors, musical performances, and athletic feats. To him, their successes were not just personal victories; they were proof of what dedication, learning, and family support could make possible.

He will also be remembered for his sharp wit, boundless humor, and masterful storytelling. His presence lit up a room, and his warmth left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A visitation for Charles will be held Monday, May 12, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Michael J. Higgins Funeral Service Inc., 321 South Main Street, New City, NY 10956. A funeral mass will occur Tuesday, May 13, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Francis of Assisi's Church, 128 Parrott Rd, West Nyack, NY 10994.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Breakthrough T1D, an organization dedicated to finding a cure for Type 1 Diabetes, a cause close to the hearts of those who loved Charlie

Upstate New York Chapter

PO Box 5053

Hagerstown, MD 21741-5053

https://www2.breakthrought1d.org/site/Donation2?2376.donation=form1&df_id=2376&mfc_pref=T