The Funeral Service
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During my years as a magistrate I had the pleasure of having Brendan appear before me on a number of occasions. He was indeed a powerful and fearless advocate but, although a penetrating cross-examiner, he was unfailingly courteous. He was, as has been said by many people, a true gentleman of the Bar and a marvellous example of all that is fine and noble in the legal profession.
Today’s Mass was a fitting tribute to a true Christian gentleman.
May you rest in peace, Brendan.
Unfortunately I could not attend today in person as I am interstate. I worked closely with Mr Murphy whilst he was the Public Interest Monitor and again during the Royal Commission with Morgan McLay and Kyle McDonald. It was a great pleasure to not only work with Mr Murphy but to be considered a friend. He would often tell me to call him Brendan and I would reply “OK Mr Murphy”. I had too much respect for him to be on a first name basis. Mr Murphy would often call me to check on my career progress and welfare. I would often brag to friends and family that Mr Murphy would take the time and effort to care for me. I am very sad I couldn’t be there in person to pay my respects. I will very much miss our chats that would always leave me smiling. I am a better person for having known Mr Murphy.
Dear Marianne, Jason, Ben, Emily and grandchildren
We are so sorry for your loss and that we could not be with you all today. He was a dearly loved brother of Pat (deceased), brother-in-law of Shirley, uncle of Julia, godfather and uncle to Loreta, in-law to Laurie Levy, great uncle to Cleelan, Sean, Conor, Eloise, Finn and great grand uncle to Braxton.
A passionate life well lived. May he rest in peace.
When Dad died I was given this Irish prayer. I hope it brings you comfort. Love Loreta
“Death is nothing at all
I have only slipped away to the next room.
I am I and you are you.
Whatever we were to each other, That, we still are.
Call me by my old familiar name.
Speak to me in the easy way which you always used.
Put no difference into your tone.
Wear no forced air of solemnity or sorrow.
Laugh as we always laughed
at the little jokes, we enjoyed together.
Play, smile, think of me. Pray for me.
Let my name be ever the household word that it always was.
Let it be spoken without effect.
Without the trace of a shadow on it.
Life means all that it ever meant.
It is the same that it ever was.
There is absolute unbroken continuity.
Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight?
I am but waiting for you.
For an interval.
Somewhere. Very near.
Just around the corner.
All is well.
Nothing is past; nothing is lost.
One brief moment and all will be as it was before only better,
infinitely happier and forever we will all be one together with Christ.
Privileged to know you Brendan. Thanks for the comfort and support you gave our family over the years.
A wonderful service.
Gwenda and family.
Brendan was my great and loyal mate. Sincere condolences to Maryanne and Ben at this time.
To Ben, a lovely speech at a very difficult time.
I will never forget Murph. He did it his way.
Sincerely
Trevor Monti KC
Brendan was one of my two role models at the Bar. The other was my master Brian Bourke. The Irish connection is no coincidence. Brendan & Brian taught me everything I ever knew about courtcraft and advocacy. They were wonderful advocates and great and generous teachers. Despite their assistance and their example I was never the world’s greatest cross-examiner. However one day in 1988 I did manage to win a speeding contest at Prahran Magistrates’ Court whereupon the police prosecutor leaned over to me and whispered “Brendan Murphy had better watch out.” It was a wonderful compliment to us both! The last eulogist concluded: “Brendan was just a splendid human being.” I absolutely concur.
My thoughts are with the family in this difficult time.
My memories are around Brendan’s generosity with his time and willingness to provide support professionally and personally. Whilst I didnt understand it fully at the time this has had a long term impact.
Today was a wonderful celebration of Brendan’s life and I am sure has added to everyone’s memories of him.
Love and best wishes
Kevin and Jacqueline
Highest regard and Respect for Brendan a true warrior of the court and sincere gentleman. Condolences and sympathies to his family. He’s fought the good fight here on earth now it’s time to rest in his heavenly home with the Lord. Amen