Tributes have been paid to a hugely popular pharmacist who worked in the heart of the Crossmaglen community for over 40 years following his peaceful passing on Thursday.
Luke Murphy, who was the grand old age of 95, was a mainstay in the town for many years – a man known by many through his business, his love of Cross’ Rangers and his unwavering commitment to the community he served so diligently.
And it was Crossmaglen Rangers who led the tributes to the man who was 42 years in business in the town back in January.
Sharing an anecdote of the great man on social media, the Club said: “Luke remembers vividly as a young boy travelling to Mullaghbawn to support Cross’ against Newtownhamilton in the Armagh County final.
“Newtown were ahead when the ball was kicked into in a corn field behind O’Hanlon’s Bar. A search ensued but the ball was never found (this could yield another story but that is for another day!) and with only one ball on the day, the game was abandoned and Newtown were crowned County champions.”
The post added: “Luke was educated in St Patrick’s college, Armagh and during his time here he was a key player on their team and won a MacRory Cup medal.
“When his studies finished in Armagh, the war had just ended and what was common place in those days, Luke went to Belfast to serve his time in his chosen career, a pharmacist.
“Peter McCoy, originally from Clonalig, was the secretary with Belfast club, Patrick Morans, who were located in King Street and this was the team Luke joined. Handball was also being introduced to clubs in Antrim at this time and Luke decided to try his hand at this also!
“Luke’s time in Belfast was very successful; he wore the colours of Antrim both on the Gaelic field and in the handball court. Returning to Cross’ in the late 50’s, Luke transferred back to his home team and what was to be the highlight of his sporting life happened in 1960 – Luke won a championship medal donning the black and amber.”
Many others have paid tribute describing him as a Crossmaglen “legend” but all in all the sentiment being how much of a “true gentleman” he was.
Luke was the devoted husband of the late Joan RIP, cherished father of Máire (Owens) and Colm.
He was a dear father-in-law of Paul, beloved grandfather of Laura, Luke and Niall and brother of Sr Mardie. He is predeceased by his parents Pa & Kathleen, brother Bernard and sister Patty (Donaghy) RIP.
Reposing at his late residence 7 Culloville Rd Crossmaglen. WAKE Visiting Times – Fri : 1-9pm. House Strictly Private at all other times.
Funeral on Saturday, July 16, leaving at 10.15am to St Patrick’s Church Crossmaglen (via North St) arriving for Requiem Mass at 10.30am. Livestream of Luke’s Requiem Mass can be viewed via the Parish webcam www.uppercreggan.co.uk Burial afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
Deeply regretted by his sorrowing daughter, son, son in law, grandchildren, sister, extended Murphy, Duffy & Murtagh families, neighbours & many friends.
Family flowers only – donations in lieu if so desired to The Parkinsons Disease Society. Enquiries to Mc Conville Funeral Directors Crossmaglen Est:1830 tel: 02830861212
