WORCESTER- Anthony P. Murphy, 99, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 10th, 2026 at Saint Francis Home in Worcester.

 Anthony is survived by his loving daughters, Sandra L. Murphy of Worcester and Robin L. Murphy-Dow and her companion William Anthony of West Boylston; two grandchildren, Douglas H. Caves, Jr. and Sevrina M. Dow. He is also survived by a brother Ronald J. Murphy of Auburn MA; four sisters- Lucille Piccinino of Riverside, CA; Marie Hopkins of Mount Juliet TN; Judy Guerra of Valencia, CA; Jackie Masterson of Natick, MA and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a son Robert A. Murphy , his former wife and friend Natalie (Piccinino) Zois, and a brother Charles Murphy Jr. who was killed in Vietnam. 

Anthony P. Murphy, born January 6, 1927, in Worcester, was the beloved son of the late Charles Murphy and Antonia (Beatrice) Murphy. Anthony proudly served his country after joining the United States Navy at the age of 17. During World War II, he served aboard the aircraft carrier USS Essex in the Pacific Asiatic area. He was honored with the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal with 7 stars, the Philippine Liberation Medal with 2 battle stars, and the World War II Victory Medal. His service to his country was an important part of his life and something his family will always remember with pride. 

Anthony was a hardworking and dedicated truck driver for many years, working for Atlas Distributing and Holmes Transportation. He was a longtime member of Local 170, where he served for six years as Vice President. He retired in 1985. 

He was a member of Charles Murphy VFW Post 10278, a life member of the Italian American War Vets Post 3, and a life member of the East Side Improvement Club. He was also a former member of the Worcester Elks 243 and the Worcester Eagles 4311. Anthony especially treasured the friendships he made throughout his life, including his dear friend Mike “Smicka” Dalbec and the members of the Eagles. 

Anthony lived his life with determination and on his own terms. His motto was the spirit of Frank Sinatra’s “My Way”. He enjoyed an active social life, stood up for what he believed was right, and was never afraid to speak his mind. He was strong-willed, independent, and determined to live life his way. He enjoyed playing golf, pool and pitch and cherished the friendships and good times that came along with them.

 The family would like to extend a special thank you to his dear friends Allen and Debbie Erickson for their kindness and for taking the time to make homemade meals for Anthony. 

The family also wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to his PCP, Lenka Drahoradora, for her kindness, compassion, and personal attention to Anthony’s care. 

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026 from 9:30-11 a.m. in Nordgren Memorial Chapel 300 Lincoln St Worcester, MA 01605. A funeral service will follow at 11 am in the funeral home. Burial with military honors will follow in Mountain View Cemetery in Shrewsbury. 

 Anthony leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He lived his life with determination, conviction, friendship and pride – and he truly did it HIS way. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Anthony's memory to Saint Francis Home, Plantation Street, Worcester , MA; Notre Dame Hospice; or a Veterans organization of your choice.