Hornell, New York
David James Murphy, affectionately known as “Murph,” passed away on June 23, 2025, in Wellsville, NY, at the age of 63, following a brief illness.
Born on June 11, 1962, in Hornell, NY, he was the son of John and Maureen (Babcock) Murphy.
Dave grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1981). Following high school graduation, Dave enlisted with the United States Marine Corp and served with the 1st Marine Division as a Field Radio Operator for 3 years. His commitment to service continued in civilian life through a 29-year career with the New York State Department of Corrections. He retired in 2019. This was followed by his work as a Special Patrol Officer for the Steuben County Sheriff’s Department with his time spent at the Steuben Country Court House.
He was a fiercely loyal fan of the Miami Dolphins, much to the dismay of his Buffalo Bills-loving family, and also cheered on the New York Yankees. He enjoyed golfing and sharing drinks with friends (especially Bud Light and Jim Beam). Most of all, David enjoyed spending quality time with his family, and he loved his role as a Papa over the past several years.
David is survived by his wife, Shana
(Johnson) Murphy of Hornell, NY; his children Erin (Oliver) Masaba of Pittsford, NY, Kristen (Andrew) Sweezy of Wellsville, NY, Tyler Johnson of Hornell, NY, and Brody (Cindy) Murphy of Hornell, NY. He was a proud Papa to Evelyn and Bennett Masaba, Alexandria, Salvatore, Vivianna Sweezy, and Emerick Johnson. He is also survived by his brothers Andrew (Marcia) Murphy of Beaumont, CA, Matthew (Kari) Murphy of Richmond, Virginia, and Shawn Murphy of Hornell, NY, as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John & Maureen Murphy, and his brother and sister-in-law, Garth & Tracey Murphy.
Dave will be remembered for his remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome and at ease. He never met a stranger and made friends from all walks of life with his big heart, quick wit, and easygoing nature.
The family of David J. “Murph” Murphy will receive friends on Saturday (July 12, 2025) from 12:00 Noon until 2:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Memorial Service with full Military Honors will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 2:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his honor can be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com
In honor of Dave’s service to his country as a member of the US Marine Corp, the American Flag at the Dagon Funeral Home will be flown at half-staff.

Billie E. Creeley – 88 – of County Road #119, Canisteo, NY (Hamlet of Adrian) died early Sunday morning (June 22, 2025) at Noyes Memorial Hospital in Dansville, following a time of illness.
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Ignatius Loyal Church (Our Lady of the Valley Parish) and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church. She later attended St. Brendan’s Church of Almond and St. Mary’s Church of Dansville. Joanne was a devoted follower of Christ and a spiritual guide to her children. Joanne’s father helped build the wooden pews at St. Ignatius Loyal Church. All her children were baptized in the church, attended mass regularly, religious instruction class, participated in the church choir, were altar boys and helped with church grounds. Joanne’s unwavering faith in God was shown by her daily wearing of many crosses.
Joanne will fondly be remembered as being dedicated to her children and grandchildren. She could be described as a “Super Fan” and was not afraid to show her enthusiasm and cheerleading ability while watching their games. She could always be seen driving with her Red Raider gear and matching hair bows that earned her name “Grandma Bow-tie.” She was always holding up traffic honking her horn and/or sharing her goodie bag she had in her car with all of her angels. She was always the loudest fan and never missed a sporting event to cheer on her kids, grandkids, families and all of her loved ones. Although she was a lifelong super fan of Hornell, she loved to travel to Florida and Texas to stay with her kids and grandkids when she was able to.
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