Richard W.P. Murphy, Q.C.
The family of Richard Walter Patrick Murphy, Q.C., announce his peaceful passing at home with his family on November 28th, 2017. Born on March 30, 1959, he was the youngest son of Agnes (LeBlanc) and the late Michael Murphy of Wedgeport. He was the first member of his family to attend university, graduating from Acadia in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and going on to attend Dalhousie Law School, graduating in 1983. He worked in private legal practice for 25 years with Pink Star Murphy Barro and then went on to join the Public Prosecution Service as a Crown Attorney where he loved working for the past 8 years. Rick gave freely of his time to clients and colleagues. He was appointed Queen’s Counsel in recognition for his dedication to the profession.
Rick's passion for sport was found on the badminton court. He was one of the most decorated and respected athletes in Nova Scotia badminton history. He won over a dozen Provincial and Atlantic singles titles, along with four National Masters singles titles in 2007, 2012, 2014 and 2016. He also won numerous Provincial and Atlantic doubles as well as mixed doubles titles with his wife. He was recognized by Badminton Nova Scotia with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his significant achievements and contributions to the sport. Rick was a long-time coach of several sports in Yarmouth County, including, badminton, hockey, and soccer. He was a proud Acadian and member of the Association des Acadiens-Métis Souriquois. Rick loved making rappie pie for his family and friends and was well-known for his specialty.
Rick met the love of his life, Shelley, on the badminton and tennis courts. They went on to create memories raising two boys, travelling, attending live theatre in London, Toronto, New York, and Las Vegas, and spent many holidays with the Wilson family in Salisbury, NB. Rick joined Shelley in their love of nature and worked to protect the lakes in Yarmouth County. He had a propensity for being independent and with the mentoring of his father-in-law, took on many DIY projects resulting in a new garage, cabin roof, and in his final months, with the help of his sons, a new dock at the lake. Rick was a loyal provider and protector of his family and was most proud of his sons.
Along with his loving wife of 31 years, Shelley Wilson, he is survived by: two sons, Regan and Colin; brother, Jack (Elaine), Ottawa; three sisters, Barbara (Jim) Bickerton, Sackville; Sandra (Brian) Boudreau, Plymouth; and Sharon Murphy, Wedgeport, as well as by his loving in-laws and many aunts, nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was predeceased by two brothers, Kenny (2011) and Warren (1964). He will be greatly missed by his family and all who knew him.
The family wishes to thank Palliative Care and the Tri-County VON for their support. A celebration of Rick’s life was held at Beacon United Church, Yarmouth, Sunday, December 3rd at 2 p.m., Rev. Greg Porter officiated, followed immediately by a reception in the Church Hall. Private inurnment in St. Michael’s Parish Cemetery at a later date. Family flowers only please. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Tri-County VON, Canadian Red Cross, or the Tusket River Environmental Protection Association. On-line condolences may be sent to: sweenysfh@eastlink.ca or you may sign the guestbook on-line at: www.sweenysfuneralhome.net