Redmond Murphy, class '44

The Union is deeply saddened to learn of the recent passing of Redmond Murphy (class of 1944).

The 1944 Senior Schools Cup winning team was captained by Ray Carroll and included several distinguished past men including John Cooney, Tom Delahunt, Joe O’Neill, Colman Healy, and Fr. Paddy O’Donoghue. Throughout his life, Redmond retained close friendships with many of his year.

As the Second world war raged in Europe and beyond, it was a challenging time for Redmond and his fellow students in the College. The following is an extract from the 1940 chronicle: “Our TE DEUM at the end of this scholastic year should be sung with sentiments of most sincere gratitude; in a world at war the quiet routine of College life went on.”

Redmond was an accomplished debater and 1943 winner of the prestigious Brady Centenary Prize where he spoke in support of the motion: “that the introduction of machinery has done more harm than good”.

On leaving Castleknock, Redmond joined the family wholesale distributors, PJ Murphy & Co. He went on to be a shareholder in and Chairman of Boland’s Mills. He was also Chairman of Naas Racecourse.

Redmond’s older brother, Paddy (class of 1943), was the Honorary Consul for Brazil in Ireland.

Redmond was a Life Member of Milltown Golf, which has a long association with Castleknock past men. Winner of the 1961 Captain’s Prize, he was delighted to see his grandson, Stephen, repeat the achievement almost 60 years later in 2020.

Throughout his life, Redmond was a committed daily swimmer in the 40ft. Indeed, he celebrated his 90th birthday with a swim, with his family and colleagues arranging a musical ensemble and tenor to add to the atmosphere of the occasion.

In 1954, Redmond married Maeve Shaw and they spent 65 happy years as husband and wife. In early 2020, sadly Maeve passed away from Covid. It was a difficult time for the family as they could not care for her or celebrate her life as they would have wished.

Redmond always maintained strong links with Castleknock College, and over many years was a regular attendee at the Good Friday retreat. Redmond was a loyal past man and will be sadly missed by his family and many friends.

Redmond passed away on March 13th, his 96th birthday. He is survived by his son Brian, and daughters Linda and Jennifer. He was sadly predeceased by his younger son Trevor.

https://rip.ie/death-notice/redmond-murphy-stillorgan-dublin/489306

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