Obituaries Australia

John Murphy, n.d.

State Library of Queensland, picqld-citrix08--2006-07-27-13-42

Doubtless there are many of your readers who will hear with regret of the demise of Mr. John Murphy, P.M., which took place at his residence this morning. The deceased gentleman had been ailing for a long time, and everything that medical skill could suggest was done to give him relief, but without avail. It is now over thirty years since Mr. Murphy first came to Ipswich, or as it was more familiarly known in those days, Limestone. At that time he occupied the position of manager of the firm of Walter Gray and Co., and after the death of the head of the firm he carried on business on his own account. In his business transactions as well as in his private life his actions were unimpeachable, and he was sought after and admired by all who had the honour of his friendship. Citizens of whatever station in life were equally welcome to participate in his large fund of information upon the subject which happened to agitate the public mind at the time. In every movement that appertained to the advancement of the town he was always to the front to lend his aid to the good cause. In volunteer movements he was a hearty worker, and at one time held the position of captain of the Rifles. Horse-racing had also his hearty co-operation. Shortly before the race meetings came off he was to be seen making a canvass of the town, and it would be a difficult matter to refuse "John Murphy." In municipal affairs he was especially prominent, and was several times elected mayor, which position he filled with the greatest credit to himself and to the honour and advancement of the town in general. Some years ago he was appointed as police-magistrate at Roma, and those who have been brought into contact with him in his judicial capacity speak in the highest praise of the faithfulness and impartiality with which he discharged the functions of his office. The deceased gentleman was 62 years of age, and leaves a wife four children. His funeral will take place to-morrow at 10 o'clock.