Michael J. Murphy

Michael J. Murphy of Warwick passed away on Sunday, March 15, 2026 at South County Hospital at the age of 74 after valiantly battling cancer for the past 4 years.

Mike is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of 47 years, Nancy Murphy.  He was the devoted father of Sean Murphy of West Warwick and Karlah Murphy of Warwick.  In addition, he is survived by his brother, William J. Murphy and his wife, Stacey of West Warwick and his sister-in-law Sandra Russell of Clifton Park, NY.  He also leaves several nephews, nieces, cousins and many dear friends.  Mike was the son of the late John and Dorothy Murphy.  He was the brother-in-law of the late Norman Russell.

Mike was a graduate of West Warwick High School, where he was a member of the Wizards State Championship Basketball Team and Vice President of the Spanish Club.

Mike graduated from Quinnipiac College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish.  He also studied at the University of Salamanca in Salamanca, Spain.  For years, he was the only known Spanish speaking leprechaun in Kent County.

Mike was an insurance agent for over 30 years and operated his own agency.  Prior to entering the insurance field, Mike was the proprietor of Pat’s Tap in Providence where he tended bar, answered the phone and was a renowned Blackjack dealer.

Mike was an avid golfer and longtime member of Valley Country Club.  He had one hole in one during his golfing career.  It is rumored that his handicap often fluctuated with the amount wagered on the match.

He was a self-proclaimed gourmet cook and took great pride in always preparing his appetizer assortment for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

In his spare time, Mike was the basketball coach at St. Joseph School in West Warwick for over 35 years.  Father Charles and Father Greg gave him special dispensation for his sideline behavior during games.  This past Fall, Mike was part of the first class inducted into the Rhode Island Catholic Athletic League Hall of Fame.

Mike was a very positive person and always saw the good in others.  He lived life to the fullest.   May he rest in peace.

Mike’s family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at South County Hospital for the care and compassion they provided him with.  Mike’s family also appreciates Reverend Gregory P. Stowe’s constant support.

His funeral will be held Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 8:45 AM from the PRATA-GALLOGLY Funeral Home, 78 Providence, Street, West Warwick. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph Church, 854 Providence Street, West Warwick, RI. Burial will follow in Notre Dame Cemetery, West Warwick. Visiting Hours are Friday, March 20, 2026 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mike’s memory to St. Joseph School, 850 Wakefield Street, West Warwick, RI 02893,      401-821-3450. To share condolences, please visit: www.PrataGallogly.com

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