surrounded by his family on August 4, 2014, at the age of 93. He was
born in Dorchester on March 20, 1921, the only child of Lester Francis
and Florence Murphy. He grew up in Dorchester and developed a
lifelong friendship with Bob Foley that was only ended by Bob’s death
in 2012. Joe attended Boston Latin School and Harvard University in
the Class of 1942. As a member of the ROTC his studies ended in early
1942 when he was called into the Army where he served his country in
World War II teaching field artillery and achieving rank of
Lieutenant. Although studying to become a physician before the War,
his service in the Army sparked an interest in the operation of larger
organizations leading to his decision to work for Johnson & Johnson
after his Discharge. He married the love of his life, Barbara Heyer,
in 1947, and together they raised a family while handling several
relocations due to his work including Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
Rochester, New York, Westfield, New Jersey and Weymouth, Canton and
Wellesley. Massachusetts. He rose to head the Hospital Division of
Johnson & Johnson before returning to the Boston area working for a
surgical supply business. Joe was a “Spark” all his life avidly
following the Boston and local Fire Departments and annoying his wife
for years with the sound of a fire radio. He and Barbara retired to
Brewster, Massachusetts, in 1993, at age 72 enjoying their life on
Cape Cod and frequent family visits.
Joe lost his beloved Barbara in October of 2012, and continued to live
at home near Sheeps Pond, kept company by his dog, family, friends and
wonderful caregivers.
He is survived by three daughters, Judith Murphy-Sincock of
Philadelphia, PA, Janice Gallagher of Holliston, MA, Joan Dignan of
South Dennis, a son Lester Jay, Jr. of East Dennis, a close and dear
niece, Marcia Oliver, of Bozeman, MT, six grandchildren and a great
grandson, as well as his sister-in-law, Natalie Edman, of
Yarmouthport. All fondly remember their time with Joe, his love of
life, his family and his many friends.
Friends may call from 4-7 pm on Sunday, August 10, 2014 at Doane, Beal
& Ames Funeral Home, 729 Route 134 in South Dennis. A Mass of
Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 am on Monday, August 11,
2014 at Our Lady of the Cape Church, 468 Stony Brook Road in West
Brewster, MA. Burial will follow in Brewster Memorial Cemetery on
Route 124 in Brewster.
Contributions in Joe’s memory may be made to Hope Hospice, 765 Attucks
Lane, Hyannis, MA 02601.
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