Lawrence Thomas Murphy, 77, of East Islip passed away on November 18th, 2024.

Lawrence was born on January 27th, 1947 in Brooklyn, NY. He was born the 10th of 11 children to Ida and James Murphy. He was truly a devoted husband, father, father-in-law, brother, uncle, friend and in recent years the best “papa.”

Lawrence spent 28 years serving his city with the FDNY in the borough that raised him. Brooklyn gave back the love to him that he gave to it. He spent the majority of his career serving alongside his brothers and sisters at Engine 255/ Ladder 157 and ended his career at Engine 248 with the 41 Battalion. These were his 2nd homes when away from his wife of 35 years, Janice and two daughters, Michael Ann and Jacqueline.

Lawrence possessed the traits that everyone knew him for. His humble nature and heart of gold. He never took the credit for the things he surely should have. He continuously gave the gift of unconditional love to his (very extensive) family. Lawrence would do all that he could to help others and would literally give you the shirt off his back.

Before serving his city, Lawrence served his country as Military Police Officer in the United States Army.

Throughout his life he took up hobbies and activities such as karate, softball, golf, swimming, and painting.

Post 9/11, Lawrence spent countless hours at Ground Zero, with the additional hours in the days spent honoring and attending funerals of as many fallen comrades as possible. The toll this takes on an individual couldn’t be seen on him because he handled it with grace, strength, compassion and respect. Prior to these events, he overcame each of his personal hardships the same way. It was who he was.

Lawrence made friends in East Islip, his new home post retirement through supporting local establishments and the local 7-11. How someone has people call on him through a meeting in a 7-11 parking lot was a mystery to his family. All they know is that it rings true to his character.

Although he lived with illness as a result of 9/11, he lived out a full life watching his daughters grow and have children of their own. He loved and was loved by his grandsons Brayden Michael and Logan James and granddaughter Shay Everly.

His last few months of life were not easy, but he did not wear the struggle. He spent that time surrounded by his family, his wife Janice’s cooking and sweets. Lots of sweets. A phenomenal man is no longer on earth, but what he did for others, will always remain. As one of a kind, he will forever and eternally be missed.

Lawrence is also survived by his beloved siblings Eileen, William, Mary Kay and John. He has joined those we lost before him, Carol, James, Ida and Patricia. May he always rest in peace.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Tunnels to Towers and are appreciated, as it was a cause close to his heart.