Thomas J. Murphy was born September 2, 1945 to Joseph and Agnes Murphy in Rockford, MI. He was a loving father and devoted husband. Thom was extremely proud to be an Army Veteran and would light up being with fellow soldiers. He served in the Vietnam War from 1968-1969. All throughout his life, he considered it a great honor to serve his country. During his deployment he listened on the radio in the deep Vietnamese jungle as the Detroit Tigers won the World Series. He received two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star during his time in combat. He returned home safely to a very worried mother that saved every news article clip and letter about her Tommy.

He later attended Ferris State and went on to become a salesman among other trades like being a painter. He took up photography that started when he was recovering from injuries in Vietnam, and Thom continued that passion all throughout his life. One of his favorite pastimes was taking pictures of those he loved, especially his daughters Allyson and Sydney.

He later married his loving wife Diane. The two of them met ballroom dancing and enjoyed hunting for rocks together. The two of them loved their pets together and would watch the birds outside their window while drinking morning coffee at the kitchen table.

Thom was a gentle hearted man. He also had a goofy sense of humor and did not meet one stranger that he could not strike up a conversation with. His favorite place was being with his two daughters that he lavishly doted on.

The final chapter of his life was spent at the Michigan Veterans Home at Grand Rapids. This was a very happy time for Thom. He once again was a stranger to no one there and will be well missed by all the vets and staff that became family. He passed peacefully October 10, 2026 to be in the arms of Jesus.

His funeral will be Thursday October 15 at Michigan Veterans Home at Grand Rapids: Visitation at 10:30am and Service at 11:00am.

2950 Monroe Avenue NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49505