It is with great sadness that the family of Eric Shane Murphy announces his passing on Oct. 3, 2019, just before his forty-fifth birthday. Eric was a lifetime resident of Newport News.

He attended Thomas Nelson Community College where he earned multiple summa cum laude degrees and certifications in IT and communications. He was approaching his twentieth year working at TNCC.  As a telecommunications and network analyst senior, Eric was a cherished member of the IT family and the go-to guy for the entire campus. 

Eric was a computer geek from an early age and was the virus fighter, trouble-shooter, and photograph restorer for grateful family and friends. His homemade key lime pies and fresh rockfish tacos are among his signature dishes that his family will miss.

Eric relished his trips to the Florida Keys where he enjoyed time spent with friends, fishing, manatee watching, and savoring key lime pie!  He was passionate about ice hockey, following and cheering on the Norfolk Admirals with a devoted group of friends. 

Eric was preceded in death by his father, “Bobby” Murphy, and paternal grandparents, Robert Henry and Helen Murphy. He is survived by his maternal grandmother, Mary Miles; parents, Patti (Don) Boyd; sister, Kristy (Paul) Leslie; brother, Sean Murphy; stepbrothers, Chris (Sheree) Boyd and James (Carol) Boyd and 15 nieces and nephews.  Eric is also survived by his most faithful companion, his beloved husky, Rebos.

Eric was regarded by friends, family and coworkers alike as a kind and honest person who was always there for you no matter the time of day or what he had going on personally.  Uncle Parrot will truly be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Eric’s favorite local hangout, Schooners Grill in Newport News, on Friday, Oct. 18 from 6-8 p.m.

As requested by Eric, an IT scholarship has been established at TNCC in his name.  Donations in lieu of flowers will be most appreciated and can be made payable to the TNCC Educational Foundation, note “Eric Shane Murphy Scholarship”, and mailed to the TNCC Educational Foundation, Room 725-I, Hampton III Bldg., 99 Thomas Nelson Drive, Hampton VA 23666.