HAYMARKET, Va. -- CSP is saddened to report the death on Nov. 12 of Joe Murphy, 44, from a cardiac event while recovering from a stroke. Murphy was a member of the Circle K franchise marketing team and longtime friend of CSP.
Professionally, he worked with the On the Run Franchisees on the East Coast, but he carried those relationships to the next level--helping those in need near his home in northern Virginia. Networking with associates and resources in the convenience store industry, Murphy headed up clothing drives to support local schools and families, providing children with everything from warm winter coats to bicycles.
Born in Canada, Murphy moved to the United States in 1995, where he and his wife were raising their three daughters. Besides his family, he was also closely associated with the East Coast racing circuit and a proud supporter of David Polenz and the Polenz Racing Team.
(Click here to read about Joe Murphy Night at Old Dominion Speedway in September 2011.)
Last year, he was faced with a serious health issue, followed by a recovery that presented daily challenges. Working with a rehab team at Mount Vernon, Va., he made considerable strides and was able to return to work this past spring. His courage and his dedication to his rehabilitation over the past 15 months inspired many friends across the country and in Canada.
His wife, Keely, offered this tribute on Facebook:
It is with great sadness I am posting here today. In my last update on this page I talked of all the Amazing miracles the year had brought. Joe did defied all odds and came out on top with a bright future ahead.
Monday evening, without warning, he was taken from me and his three beautiful girls. While I reflect back over the last 15 months, I am grateful for each moment we were granted... However I am left wanting more. I look to the amazing strength and perseverance Joe showed over the last 15 months and only hope that our girls will remember to never give up and always give 100%. They watched as a miracle formed before them and this has taught them many things to help them through this terrible tragedy.
Joe strived for perfection and this is what Made him successful in beating the odds. I know that he will keep all the Angels working at 110%, watching over his "three little Angels".
It is through my tears and sorrow that I must say goodbye to my best friend. I looks not forward to the coming days and weeks; But I know that with all the love, support and prayers we will also persevere and survive. Joe would not have it any other way.
I hope that everyone will take a moment to reflect on their lives and remember the things that are important to us should not be taken for granted. Hug your friends and family. Be thankful for all the blessings in your lives and live your life to the fullest! I love you all and thank each of you for the endless love and support you have shown our family.
Love, Keely, Lauren, Morgan and Reagan
"I got to know Joe with his work at ExxonMobil," said CSP vice president and group editor Mitch Morrison. "Joe took great interest in the marketing programs and making them a big win for ExxonMobil's fuel marketers and franchisees. We also used to love talking about the New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox. He may not have been a native son of Boston, but we Bostonians treated him as one."
He is survived by his wife, Keely Ridgway Murphy; three children: Lauren, 13, Morgan, 10, and Reagan, 6; his parents; and a large extended family.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Stroke Foundation.
CSP sends condolences to his family, his friends and his colleagues.
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