Raymond J. Murphy passed away on Thursday, December 21, 2023 at 82 years of age. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Kevin and Elizabeth Murphy of Northborough, Massachusetts; grandchildren, Sean (11) and Addy (9) as well as daughter, Lisa Murphy of Albany, New York.

Ray was born and raised in Schenectady, New York. Known as a quiet and gentle man, Ray sought to put others' needs before his own throughout much of his life. He finished high school and enlisted in the army at the young age of 18. After being discharged, Ray went on to use his skills as a computer technician for IBM where he was a dedicated employee for 30 years. It was during this time that he met his wife, Joan, and they were married in 1989.

Upon retirement, Ray and Joan moved to North Carolina and ultimately settled further south in sunny Florida where they spent more than 20 years. Ever the craftsman, Ray spent most of his free time woodworking as well as bowling, fishing, playing softball and tending to his yard and fruit trees. Ray continued playing sports well into his 70s and only stopped recently when the pandemic forced him to limit group activities.

In his final years, Ray took care of his beloved wife Joan until her passing in the spring of 2023. It was then that he agreed to leave the warm weather to be closer to his son and grandchildren. During his 7 months in Massachusetts Ray loved watching Sean and Addy's sporting events and sharing regular family meals. While not nearly long enough, these memories will be forever treasured.

Ray will be remembered for his sweet and agreeable personality; never wanting to inconvenience others. In his final days, Ray refused to say he was anything but "pretty good," but for those who knew him best, he was exceptional in so many ways - a true gentleman committed to his family and in supporting those closest to him.

A visiting hour will take place 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. on Friday, December 29, at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough. Ray's funeral will begin at 11:30 a.m. in the funeral home. Burial with Military Honors will follow in the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully asks that you consider a memorial donation in Ray's honor be sent to a foundation the Murphys have supported since its inception - Honor Connor (www.honorconnor.org).