James E. "Babe" Murphy, Sr., a longtime resident of Wakefield and formerly of Melrose, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, September 24, 2026, just two weeks shy of his 95th birthday.

Jim was born in Boston on October 7, 1931, one of three children of the late James and Anna T. (Shea) Murphy. He was raised and educated in Malden and attended Cheverus School before serving his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Following his honorable discharge, Jim married his beloved wife, Arlene Jay, on June 16, 1962, at St. Mary's Church in Melrose. Together, they settled in Melrose, where they raised their family of five children. Jim went on to work as a Postal Clerk for the United States Postal Service in Boston's Back Bay, a position he held for 35 years.

A proud Irishman and lifelong sports fan, Jim had a special place in his heart for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the New York Yankees. His Catholic faith was an important part of his life, and he was a longtime parishioner of St. Mary's Church in Melrose, and in more recent years St. Joseph's Church in Wakefield. Jim was also a longtime member of the Melrose Knights of Columbus, and the Melrose Elks Club. He cherished the opportunity to return to his family's roots in Ireland, but there was nowhere Jim was happier than at home, surrounded by his family. He also enjoyed listening to his favorite Irish music and never lost his quick wit or wonderful sense of humor. His outgoing personality and easygoing nature made him a welcome presence wherever he went.

Above all, Jim found his greatest happiness in his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, who took great pride in the family he and Arlene built together. He will be lovingly remembered for his unwavering faith, his Irish heritage, and his deep love of family that brought him happiness throughout his life.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Jim's caretaker, Nora, for her compassionate care and caring presence during his final days.

Jim was the beloved husband of the late Arlene J. (Jay) Murphy with whom he shared 41 years of marriage. Devoted father of Mark Murphy of Salem, Colleen Murphy and her husband Eric Taitano of Melrose, Kerry Murphy and her husband James D. Schena, Jr. of Stoneham, Jerry Murphy of Mansfield, and the late James E. Murphy, Jr. Dear brother of the late Patrick Muphy, and Jeremiah Murphy. Cherished grandfather of Kaley Murphy and her wife Ruby, Devin Murphy, Emily Murphy, Eric Taitano, Alianna Taitano, and Alec Taitano.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to gather in honor of Jim during Visiting Hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Friday, Oct. 2 from 4-7pm, and again on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 9am before leaving in procession to St. Mary's Church, Herbert St., for his Funeral Mass at 11am. Interment with military honors presented by the US Army at Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. For online tribute, visit www.RobinsonFuneralHome.com