Joseph Murphy

Joseph C. Murphy passed away with his dearest loved ones by his side on Wednesday, September 28, 2022.

Born October 2, 1946, in Ellicott City, Maryland, he spent much of his youth trekking up and down the hilly streets of the idyllic town. He attended Howard High School and kept close with many of those friends throughout his life.

Joe was drafted into the military and served during the Vietnam War. After leaving the Army he spent time in various cities across Ohio, Massachusetts, and Indiana before landing in Toledo, where he met the love of his life, Cheryl. After they were married in 1981, Joe had an opportunity to transfer with General Tire to Akron where he & Cheryl settled. He worked for many years as CFO for AstroCosmos Metallurgical and led the company to international success. He spent the rest of his life building a community of friends and raising his two [insert favorite adjective] children, who he made sure to get out on the golf course from a young age.

His favorite things in the world were his family, the golf course, seeing the world, giving back to his community, and enjoying a glass (or two) of scotch to end the day. Joe sank two hole in ones in his golf career on the 4th and 9th holes at Fairlawn C.C., and spent his final day shooting par. Joe was the friend at the dinner table who'd sit quietly and listen and when he did speak made you belly laugh with his quips.

For the last several years he and Cheryl spent winters avoiding snow on Hilton Head Island. Beaches and oceans were a favorite of his since childhood. Summers were often spent visiting, and later working, in Ocean City, Maryland. Maryland lump crab cakes, a cold beer, and key lime pie were always calling his name.

Joe loved to visit with friends at the Highland Games in Ontario, and found joy in Celtic music, especially that performed by his friends. He always found a way to make new friends feel like family. His quick wit, classic dad jokes, and loving spirit leave a giant hole in those who loved him. He was looking forward to spoiling his first grandchild in
the Spring, and in the meantime, loved practicing with his grandpups.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Doris Murphy, his beloved cousin, Tom Merson; and his favorite mother-in-law, Karola Dunstan. Joe leaves behind a host of loving family in Maryland, many golf pals, his wife, Cheryl; son, Kevin (Melissa); and daughter, Colleen (Michael Iacianci).

Friends and loved ones may call at Hummel Funeral Home, 3475 Copley Road, Copley, on Sunday, October 2, 2022 from 1-3 pm and are warmly invited to a Celebration of Life on Monday, October 3, 2022 beginning at 11:00 am at the funeral home.

In true Joe fashion, we encourage those attending the calling hours or Celebration of Life to dress in your best Joe attire: funky socks, matching shoe laces, or your favorite dad sweater.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Stephen A. Comunale, Jr. Family Cancer Foundation at PO Box 13805 W. Market St. Akron OH 44334 or stephencomunale.org

Slainte, we'll meet you on the next tee, Joe.