Mr. James Murphy

MR. James Murphy, of Movilla Road, Downpatrick, was a senior administrator in the Northern Ireland Court Service and was widely admired and respected. He was 89.

Mr. Murphy, who died suddenly in the Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, on January 6, rose to become Chief Clerk of the Crown and County Court for South Down.

When he retired in 1988 many tributes were paid to him by solicitors’ associations and other members of the legal profession, including judges, who were grateful for his helpfulness and professionalism at all times.

He had worked in the offices of Down County Court since 1962 following a career in the firm of James F. Fitzpatrick, Solicitors. When the Court Service was reorganised in 1974 he was appointed Chief Clerk for the Division of South Down.

Mr. Murphy was born in Downpatrick on January 27, 1923, the eighth of ten children. He married his wife, Betty, in 1954 and was a devoted husband and, later, a loving father.

Mr. Murphy had many interests. He played the clarinet in St. Patrick’s Silver and Reed Band, was a keen gardener and also enjoyed playing indoor bowls.

The Very Rev. Patrick Devlin celebrated requiem mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Downpatrick, on Wednesday, January 9. Interment was at Struell Cemetery.

In addition to his wife, Mr. Murphy is survived by his children, Anne, Hugh, Gabriel and Donna, eight grandchildren, two great grandchildren and a brother, Ath.