Reflection of Life

On the morning of Friday, November 29, 2024, Roland Edward Murphy of Bowie, Maryland peacefully transitioned to his eternal resting place. Roland was born on August 16, 1949 to the late Clyde and Geneva Turner Murphy in Sussex County, Virginia.  He was the ninth of thirteen children.  He was baptized at an early age at First Baptist Church in Disputanta, Virginia. Roland is preceded in death by his mother, father, brothers Clyde, David, Daniel, Marvin, James and sister Katie.

Roland was in middle school when his family relocated to Alexandria, Virginia.  He graduated from George Washington High School in 1967.  After graduation, he worked as a driver for Muphy's Trucking Company and J & R Roll Off Inc. In 1986, he partnered with his brothers, James and Jerome, and they operated James Disposal Service together until 2017.

Roland enjoyed watching the daily news, 60 Minutes and old western shows. Growing up he would watch Perry Mason every night. He loved cars, especially corvettes. He would talk endlessly about how to take care of them. He enjoyed good food and eating out. Throughout his illness he greeted you with a smile and appreciated every act of kindness shown him.

He is survived by his life partner Yvonne Heard; former wife Diane Murphy and their son Charles Murphy; siblings: Joe Murphy of Alexandria, VA, Laura McCants (Odell) of Bowie, Md, Henry Murphy of Suitland, MD, Andrew Murphy of Alexandria, VA, Jerome Murphy (Leslie) Baltimore, MD and Dorothy McKenzie (Vincent) of Bowie MD; sister-in laws Kate Murphy, Samira Murphy; aunts Mary Tucker, Warnetta Turner and Minerva Turner; uncle, Robert Turner and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.