Letter of Heart - February 2021

Alphonsus C. (Al) Murphy passed away peacefully on January 16 at the age of 92. I knew Al as Mr. Murphy, the father of my dearest college friend. A longtime Michigander, he spent his last few years near two of his daughters, including my good friend Kate, in northern California after the death of his wife Peg. Scattered around the country, the family returned to their hometown of East Lansing for a memorial mass and burial in early February. I attended. What a gift it was. 

COVID has challenged all of us in so many ways. One that is universal is the isolation we feel, the lack of social connection and togetherness among family, friends, colleagues and even strangers. The intimate funeral gathering provided a welcome occasion to come together to honor Al, recognize all that is good and right in our lives, reminisce and celebrate a man’s legacy. This 24-hour trip was one of the most special and renewing experiences I have had, a resounding high point within this draining year. 

Al Murphy was an ordinary man who lived an extraordinary life. He lived intentionally. A U.S. Marine, proud graduate of University of Michigan Law and Business schools, diehard Wolverine, devoted husband and father of five, active in several civic and philanthropic endeavors and lifelong, faithful Catholic, he lived what he valued—commitment to excellence in education, work and golf, devotion to his family and faith and steadfastness in doing what is right and just. Al and Peg raised exceptional children, and his life and works have touched countless more. When I think of Mr. Murphy, I recall a man who embraced his values to the end and in doing so, a life well lived. 

I am ending this small tribute with a poem by F. Scott Fitzgerald that seems a fitting reflection of Mr. Murphy’s life: 

“The purpose of life is not to be happy. 

It is to be useful, to be honorable, 

to be compassionate, 

to have it make some difference 

that you have lived 

and lived well.” 

May His everlasting grace shine on you, Mr. Murphy. 

In faith, love and gratitude, 

Cadey