Embracing the Past, Serving the Present: Dr. Dennis Murphy's Incredible Story

The Spokane Club is home to many remarkable individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving their community. Among them is Dr. Dennis Murphy, a man whose journey has taken him from hardware stores to executive positions, and eventually to the noble profession of funeral directing. With a career spanning decades, Dr. Murphy's commitment to helping others during their most challenging times has left an indelible mark on the lives of countless families.

Meet Dr. Dennis Murphy, Funeral Director

Although Dr. Murphy didn't start his professional journey as a funeral director, his passion for this vocation began at a young age. Recalling his early aspirations, he remembers his mother telling him he didn't have enough gray hair to be a funeral director. Undeterred, he embarked on various career paths, working in a hardware store and later finding success as the General Manager and Vice President at the Toro company. He even ventured into the world of accounting for an air compressor business. At the age of 47, Dr. Murphy finally pursued his long-held dream of becoming a funeral director. Reflecting on his decision, he remarked, "You either can do it or you can't. I'll never forget my first adventure into embalming. I said, 'Well, this is it! You either do this or you can't.' And I did it." This unwavering determination and the genuine desire to assist people during their darkest moments have been the driving forces behind his success in the field. When asked about the most fulfilling aspect of his work, Dr. Murphy expressed, "I enjoy the fact that you help people on the worst day of their life. It's so important to have someone who cares to guide them through what to do." Funeral directors play an integral role in supporting grieving families, ensuring that all necessary arrangements are made with empathy and professionalism. Dr. Murphy's commitment to offering guidance and care has left a lasting impact on those he has served.

Not one to rest on his laurels, Dr. Murphy retired briefly for only four days before joining Hennessy Funeral Homes, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to his craft. Throughout his life, he has been known for his tireless work ethic, always seeking new opportunities to contribute to his community. From his involvement in the Spokane Junior Chamber of Commerce as a young executive to his leadership role as the past chairman for the Washington State Funeral Directors Association, Dr. Murphy understands the significance of networking and building trust in the funeral industry. In his role, Dr. Murphy has witnessed firsthand the challenges families face when a loved one passes away unexpectedly. Many individuals find themselves unprepared and overwhelmed by funeral preparations and legal and administrative tasks. Recognizing the importance of planning ahead, Dr. Murphy emphasizes the necessity of documenting one's preferences for their death. By doing so, individuals can alleviate the burden on their families, ensuring that their final wishes are fulfilled.

Despite the somber nature of his profession, Dr. Murphy has encountered moments that hint at the mystical and supernatural. As a former Verger at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist, he experienced a peculiar encounter when he felt a mysterious "whoosh" one night, attributing it to the spirit of Harold C. Whitehouse, the church's architect. Dr. Murphy recalls even witnessing a portrait inexplicably glowing. His best story, however, came from a dream he had a couple of months after his mother's passing. In the dream, she reassured him that she was happy and advised him to listen to her beloved "do-wacka-do" music from the 1920s. Since that dream, Dr. Murphy has found solace, no longer burdened by worry about his mother's well-being.

Dr. Murphy's roots run deep in Spokane, with his family's history stretching back to 1883. He takes pride in his ancestral ties to the region and fondly recalls stories shared by his great-grandmother in her diary, who wrote about the ashy dirt on the little island they lived on near Gonzaga before it was submerged by the backed-up Spokane River. His great-grandfather, Thomas Jack, owned a factory until a co-founder absconded with the funds, leading him to pursue farming and pass on the land to Dr. Murphy's grandfather, who raised eight children there. This rich family history instilled in Dr. Murphy a deep appreciation for the past, leading him to pursue his love for history and antique cars. An avid collector of antique automobiles, Dr. Murphy possesses an impressive array of classic cars, including a 1939 Packard Super Eight Hearse. He has always been a "car guy," with his first vehicle being a 1953 Pontiac Straight-8 Sedan that he acquired for a mere $14. His passion for restoring these treasures reflects his innate connection to the past. In addition to his automotive pursuits, he has lovingly restored his own historic home to its original 1910 grandeur.

For nearly half a century, the Spokane Club has played an integral role in Dr. Murphy's life. Joined through the sponsorship of the Toro distributorship owners, who were pleased with their own membership, the Club has become a cherished place for him. What keeps him coming back, he says, are the friends he has made over the years. Saturday morning breakfasts with his close companion of almost 50 years have become a beloved tradition. Memories of dinner parties in the Cutter Dining Room and delightful escapades, such as Rev. Richard Coombs light-heartedly crashing a wedding in the Georgian Ballroom. He also fondly reminisces about the renowned Maître d', Will Barron, who added a touch of opulence to the Spokane Club with exquisite silverware and fine china.

Dr. Dennis Murphy's remarkable journey as a funeral director and his unwavering commitment to helping others during their most challenging moments truly define his character. Through his compassion, guidance, and devotion, he has provided solace to countless families, ensuring that their loved ones are honored and remembered. As a devoted member of the Spokane Club, he continues to inspire others with his appreciation for history and his commitment to preserving the past. Dr. Murphy's story serves as a testament to the profound impact one person can have when they dedicate their life to serving others