John E. “Capt. Jack” Murphy, age 77, passed away Friday, December 20, 2024, at home. Born in Fall River, he was the son of the late Clarence and Harriet (Labus) Murphy and was a lifelong resident of this city.
John proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, stationed in Turkey. After his military service, he attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Russian.
An adventurer, John’s passion for sailing defined his life. He was a true free spirit sailing for the love of sailing and to meet new people and raise a glass with them. He spent countless years traveling the world, forging lasting friendships, and seeking out new horizons on the open sea. Whether navigating distant waters or sharing stories of his voyages, Capt. Jack touched the hearts of everyone he met. His love of sailing wasn’t just a pastime, but a way of life, and his enthusiasm for the sport was contagious to all who sailed with him.
He is survived by his cousin, Jane Byington of Fall River and her daughter, Ava Bacsa of Lake Villa, IL, who meant the world to him, his beloved dog, Magdalena, who was the light of his life, and many friends.
Private services are under the direction of Waring-Sullivan Home at Cherry Place, 178 Winter Street, Fall River, MA 02720.
