Joseph David Murgittroyd

Joseph D. Murgittroyd, 74, also known as “Murg” to many, of Toms River passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at his home. Born on March 13, 1951, in Hoboken, but took up residence in Jersey City, North Bergen, and Jackson for decades at each before moving to Toms River in 2016. Joe dedicated his life to service, community, and family. He proudly served the Jersey City Police Department for 25 years, while being a member of P.O.B.A. of Jersey City and F.O.P. lodge #4, before retiring as a respected police officer in 1998. After retiring he went on to serve his new community as a school bus driver, in Jackson, NJ.

Beyond his career in law enforcement, Joe was a devoted husband, father, brother, Poopa and friend. He is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Helene (Roche) and children, Krista Murgittroyd, Joseph II and his wife Kathy Murgittroyd, Jessica Quinn and her husband Joe, Alan Lewis and his wife Shannon, Christy Lewis, and his brothers Jim, Jeff, Jerry, John Howe & Drew Henning. Joseph was predeceased by his mother Drucilla (Murgittroyd) Henning, father James Howe Sr., brothers Herb Henning and Joe Howe. He will be dearly missed by his 10 grandchildren, Katelyn Rossi, Erin, Kara, and Ava Murgittroyd, Tyler and wife Charity, Jeremy, and Alex Lewis, Eric Pares, Zachary Lewis, Jaxon Quinn and one great-grandchild on the way!

Joe will be remembered as a man with a heart full of kindness, hands always busy fixing or modifying something, and a mind full of advice and laughter. He had a gift for turning everyday moments into something special—whether by lending a hand, offering thoughtful guidance, or delivering one of his legendary “Dad/Poopa” jokes that never failed to bring a smile. Family and friends turned to Joe for answers, support, or just a good laugh. He was truly one of a kind, and his deep love for his family and friends will live on in the many lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Joe's name to The Michael J. Fox Foundation https://give.michaeljfox.org