Deirdre Murphy's Obituary

Deirdre C. Murphy 

Deirdre C. Murphy died Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2019, at her home in Massapequa, N.Y., after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on Mar. 19, 1965, to Thomas and Kathleen Murphy in Bayport, N.Y. She graduated with an associate's degree from SUNY Morrisville, before completing the NYPD police academy.

Becoming a police officer had always been her lifelong dream–a dream that came true in 1988. Her colleagues fondly remember her mischievous and free-spirited nature, often laughing about her infamous “sick” days. She had a way of lightening the mood during tense situations, making her a favorite among those who worked alongside her. Her sister, retired Lieutenant Eileen Murphy-Clearly, recalls frequent calls from Deirdre’s captains urging her to talk some sense into her younger sister. After all, there are only so many times a pipe can burst before work. 

Deirdre standing alongside her parents at her NYPD academy graduation.

Outside of her uniform, Deirdre was a devoted wife and mother who poured her heart into her family. She had a knack for storytelling and could light up a room with her unforgettable laugh. Deirdre found joy in the everyday moments: enjoying a cold beer with friends on a hot summer day, loudly cheering at her children's games from the sidelines and hosting family parties to keep the younger generations close and connected. Deirdre was the one who remembered birthdays, sent handwritten notes, and made everyone feel like they belonged–whether it was in her kitchen or at a family barbecue. She was a good friend, a great mother, and an even better host. She was the kind of person who made a big life out of the small, meaningful moments. Always quick to offer a listening ear, Deirdre had an incredible ability to make people feel heard and loved. She was the glue that held her family together, bringing warmth, humor, and an unwavering sense of loyalty to everyone she encountered.

Deirdre enjoying a catamaran cruise with her husband and two children.

Deirdre was preceded in death by her sister Betty Jo Murphy. She is survived by her husband, Paul Krainski; children, Paul and Grace Krainski; parents, Thomas and Kathleen Murphy; sisters, Christine Steele (Joseph), MaryEllen Lundt (Donald) and Eileen Murphy-Cleary (Buddy); brothers, Mickey Murphy (Maria), Edmund Murphy (Laura) and Kevin Murphy (Patti); nieces and nephews, Michael Murphy (Megan), Matthew Murphy, Katie Murphy, Elizabeth Steele (Sabrina), Anne Marie Steele, Daniel DiVietri (Jenny), Timothy DiVietri (Emily), and Max Lundt. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Services will be held on Thursday, Nov. 7, from 2 to 4p.m. and 7 to 9p.m. at the Massapequa Funeral Home. A funeral mass will follow on Friday at 10a.m. at St. Rose of Lima R.C. Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions would be appreciated for Paul and Grace’s established educational funds with Wells Fargo Advisors LLC. 

Deirdre spending time with a service dog at the hospital after her cancer treatment.