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Arnold Francis Murphy, born on February 29, 1932, in Georgetown, Prince Edward Island, passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 2, 2026 at the age of 94.
He was the son of William Augustus Murphy and Laura Murphy (Mooney) Arnold was the second of eight children, preceded in death by his brother Bill Murphy and his sister Helen Smith. He is survived by his older sister Louise Lundin, and his brothers Earl Murphy, Gerald Murphy, Ray Murphy, and Mark Murphy.
Arnold was a gifted athlete from a young age, excelling in hockey, rugby, and especially basketball – often leading leagues in scoring throughout his life. He attended St. Dunstan’s University in Charlottetown, PEI, in the late 1940s and early 1950s, where he played on the hockey, rugby, and basketball teams.
In 1954, he married the love of his life, Mary Gotell, from Boughton Island, PEI. The couple moved to the Toronto area and settled in Ajax, Ontario, where Arnold began his long career with DuPont Canada in 1955. As a Technical Sales Representative, he specialized in paints and became the go-to expert for resolving paint issues at major accounts like General Motors. His career took the family to Vancouver from 1960 to 1968 before returning to Ajax in 1969, where he continued until his retirement in 1984.
Arnold and Mary raised six children: Maureen (Michael), Gary (Debby), Terry (Mary), Ann (Gary- deceased), Debbie (Scott) and Beverly (Doug). The family was remarkably close, filled with laughter, music, and shared adventures – whether packing everyone into one car for camping trips or enjoying time together at home.
A devoted family man and community member, Arnold was an outstanding hockey coach, fondly remembered by many former players as “the best coach they ever had.” His leadership helped the Ajax Midgets win the All-Ontario Championship in 1975.
Socializing was central to Arnold’s life. He and Mary enjoyed bridge games, drinks with friends, dancing (earning him the nickname “Crazy Legs”), and winning dance competitions. After retirement, they split time between Picton, Ontario, and southern Texas, staying active with cards, golf, and dancing.
They especially cherished camping at Sandbanks Provincial Park, where Arnold took up sailing. Weekends were filled with sailing, campfires, singing, and simply enjoying life.
After Mary’s passing in 1998, Arnold found companionship again with Maria LeBlanc, the second love of his life. Together, they shared many happy years playing cards, dancing, and creating cherished memories.
Known for his unparalleled storytelling – complete with accents, animation, and impeccable timing -Arnold could light up any room with a joke. His talents shone brightly in a retirement home production where he led a memorable performance of Bruno Mars’ “Uptown Funk,” showcasing his dancing prowess and charisma.
Arnold will be deeply missed by his loving children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, including: Maureen’s children: Paul (child Annabelle), Michael (Adina, children Valerie, Violet and Veronica), Gary’s children: Kenny, Courtney, (Matt, children Liam, Murphy, Crew), Kyle (Kelsea, children Zoe), Terry’s children: Cassandra (Ryan), Thomas, Ann’s children: Mary-Ann (Adam, children Kinsley, Benett), Mark (Jennifer, with child Gregory), Debbie’s children: Douglas (Michelle), Kateland (Adam, with children Michael, Carter), Beverly’s children: Tyler (Tory) and Cody (Lexi).
He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, athletic excellence, and unwavering family devotion. Arnold Francis Murphy lived a full, joyful life and will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.
Rest in peace, dear husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.
