Robert Clinton Murphy

Rev. Robert Clinton Murphy (aged 85), a lifelong learner, and compassionate counselor, passed away peacefully surrounded by family, friends, and prayers on April 26, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, and love.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patty Murphy; his parents, Gwen and Charles Murphy Jr; his siblings, Suzanne and Charles III; and his stepdaughter, Marjorie Fay.

He is survived by his brother, Phillip (Sandy); his loving children, Heidi Ebersole (Harry), Sean Murphy (Debra) and Brian Murphy (Theresa); and his cherished grandchildren, Chloe, Brittany, Kaitlin, and Abigail. and great grandchild Eli. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Patricia Kilby and Peter Mulligan; his step-grandchildren, Douglas, Liam, Nikhilas , Katharine, Parker, and Amaya; and his step great grandchild, Brynley.

He shared a special and enduring bond with his dear friends, Jeff and Jane Wilber, who became beloved members of his chosen family.

A man deeply committed to education and personal growth, he graduated from Drexel Institute of Technology in 1963, Princeton Theological Seminary in 1967, and Villanova University in 1993.

His professional life reflected his calling to serve others. He began as a pastor in the Presbyterian Church from 1967 to 1977, offering guidance and spiritual leadership to his community. He later worked with Amtrak from 1977 until 1991, and then continued his dedication to helping others through his work with Life Counseling Services from 1994 to 2015, continuing his counseling work with Harbor of Safety from 2015 to present. In addition, he was a Parish Associate at the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church for over a decade.

He will be remembered for his joyful spirit and the many things that brought him happiness—singing baritone and second tenor with the Bryn Mawr Sanctuary Choir for over 45 years, spending time with his family and beloved dogs, relaxing at the beach, and immersing himself in learning. He especially enjoyed completing puzzle books and was an avid collector of books, coins, and stamps. Having grown up in scouting and earned the rank of Eagle Scout, he found great joy in nature and treasured travel, particularly the many memorable trips he shared with his choir to places such as Austria, Czechoslovakia, Brazil, Cuba, and Russia.

His warmth, wisdom, and gentle presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service will be held at the Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, 625 Montgomery Ave., Bryn Mawr, Pa., on Saturday, May 30 at 11:00 am followed by light refreshments. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, Music & Fine Arts.