Time changes things and while Jeff and I spent five years early in our adulthood together, we’re weren’t destined to be together forever. But what we did keep forever were memories of those times.  Many of those memories were centered around family gatherings, which included Jeff’s parents, siblings, nieces and nephews and the Ridgwells.  Jeff loved his family with all his heart. 

While I knew Jeff had some health issues, I hadn’t been aware of the severity of his health challenges these last few years.  I was shocked to learn of his passing.   And quite frankly hadn’t quite come up with how to process this news. I went back to the last message I had received through social media from Jeff in December. It was a video of a dog sitting up on its hind legs while howling and putting its paws together.  I’m thankful for this small token of laughter and joy Jeff shared with me.  I’m sure he thoroughly enjoyed watching it and laughing at the silly dog particularly now knowing the pain and discomfort he had been in. 

My deepest condolences to the entire Murphy family.  May peace replace your sorrow and the memories live on in your hearts as they will in mine. 

A donation was made to Friends of Norfolk Animal Care Center in memory of Jeff. 

Rest easy, Jeffery. 

Jeff was a kind hearted, strong and down to earth guy that I was privileged to have known in my formative years. He was like an older brother who gave me advice, encouragement and comfort during my life’s difficult times. I still remember a time when years passed by and we hadn’t seen each other- but I ran into Jeff at Subway in Great Bridge. He cracked that awesome smile & held out his arms to give me a hug like not a day had passed. Jeff was a special man with a heart of gold and always willing to lend a hand. He will be missed dearly by all who knew or loved him but never forgotten, for he is always in our hearts. My condolences to the Murphy family and I pray that God will provide you comfort during this very difficult time. 

I returned  back to Virginia after being  in Hawaii  and started renovating my house 
When I started on the electrical. Side of things.  I ran into Jeff when was was managing 
ECK supply 
   Jeff came to the counter put out his hand ;  Hickey.,  Jeff Murphy you don’t remember me do you ?  Well at first I didn’t it had need a very long time since hanging out over at the Murphy’ s. Growing up and I was more Danny & Neil’s  pals (even though they are probably older ) 
 The beauty of running in to Jeff was he would make you feel you were hanging out with the whole family - no different than the past once you were there visiting you were total family ! 
  That visit turned into more visits -ever time 
Jeff was there to help  and you knew he was sincere about it - a real and lost talent 
   I’ll miss Jeff I when I do I’ll just remember him. The way I feel about him to this day - a truly wonderful person - nothing but smiles his smile 
  God bless you Jeff  
Richard Hickey
  
 


Jeff was always there for me and went our of his way to be a protective brother.   He was a comedian and made me laugh more than a 1000 times.   Poppa Smurf and him were very similar and I wish both of them had better health before leaving us here on earth. When Jeff would saythings like "BOY if anyone messes with you please let them know that I'll be there and that won't happen on his watch."  Sad to have him go, but Brian + Momma and Daddy Murphy were waiting on him and I know all of them are much happier being back together again!   LOVE YOU JEFFY

We first met in 7th grade at Ruffner Jr High…We became friends and a formed a bond that turned out lasting  a lifetime.  Some of my fondest memories were made with you when we were young and just finding our way.  Your family and you treated me like a brother and son as my folks treated you.  I am forever grateful for that.  We went through good and bad times like all of us do…but we always had each other’s back.   I could see the pain you were enduring and how it was wearing on you.  I did my best to try and keep your spirits up when we would talk, all the while knowing how difficult it must have been for you given the challenges that you faced.  All that pain and suffering is gone now and you are whole again with our Lord, mom, pops, and Brian.  Fly high my brother until we meet again.  

Jeff was my good friend since second grade. In trying to minister to him these past few years, trying to remind him of his hope, we repeatedly spoke of his salvation. Many, many times he drew hope of his future in heaven. And, now he's there... He's there with his living hope, the One who saved him. I draw great peace from that knowledge. No more struggles, no more pain... Just eternity with his Lord, and mine. I pray his family and friends draw hope from that as well. I know I will see Jeff again, and we'll go back to our shared smiles and joy like we had when we were children. 

I'll always remember that wonderful smile and how great you smelled when you picked me up from school Rest in Peace my friend❤️❤️❤️❤️

OBITUARY

Jeffery Lynn Murphy

Passed away on JANUARY 22, 2023

Smith & Williams Funeral Home/Kempsville

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