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1949-2026
NEW WATERFORD -- Edward E. Murphy, 76, of New Waterford, passed away on Friday, July 17, 2026, at Hospice House, Poland.
He was born on July 31, 1949, in Beaver Falls, Pa., a son of the late Patrick and Goldie Leighgaber Murphy.
Ed was a 1968 graduate of East Palestine High School. He worked as a heavy equipment operator and Safety Manager for BFI for many years and later retired as a truck driver. He was currently attending Mount Calvary Community Church and was a past member of the CMA (Christian Motorcycle Association).
He served in the U.S. Army from 1969-1971 with his highest rank as Sergeant E-5. He was deployed to Vietnam in late 1969 where he served with the First Calvery Division Air Mobile as a Squad Leader and Acting Platoon Sergeant with Charlie Company second of the eighth battalion. He was wounded in Vietnam on April 1, 1970. His military awards include: two Bronze Star Medals for Heroism with V Device, Army Commendation Medal with V Device, and a Purple Heart.
Ed enjoyed spending time with his family, riding his Harley Davidson, and woodworking. He took many scenic trips throughout the country on his Harley and was proud to say that he had visited 48 states over the years.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth Adams Murphy, whom he married on May 6, 1970; a son, Brian Murphy of New Waterford; daughter, Ann (Eric) Powell of Leetonia; two sisters, Elizabeth (Vi) Mahon of Negley, and Gale Ann Dutch of Rogers. Also surviving are his two grandchildren whom he adored, Ethan and Emma Powell.
Ed was preceded in death by a sister, Trina Murphy, and two brothers, PJ Murphy and John Murphy.
The family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, from 5 to 7 p.m. and again on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Van Dyke-Swaney-Rettig Funeral Home, East Palestine.
Services will be held on Wednesday at 11 a.m. at the funeral home, with Pastor Kenneth Stull officiating.
Burial will take place at Crest Haven Memorial Gardens, New Waterford.
Memorial donations may be made in Ed's memory to Hospice House.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Van Dyke-Swaney-Rettig Funeral Home, East Palestine.
Family and friends may view this obituary and send condolences at www.familycareservices.com
7/20/26