In Memory: Debbie D. Murphy, Age 91

Obituary - Debbie D. MurphyDebbie D. Murphy (born September 19, 1933) died on January 21st, 2025 in Vero Beach, FL. She was 91 years old.

She was grateful for over 60 years of living “one day at a time.”

Debbie was strong, independent, and always had a positive attitude. She lived a happy, full, and highly entertaining life.

She overcame adversity at a young age and launched her career in show business. Her success in the 1950s and 1960s as a singer with “big bands” led her to places all around the world, from North Dakota to the North Pole.

She eventually moved to New York City where she met the first love of her live, Walter, while performing at the Pierre Hotel.

Debbie and Walter married and had a son, Jim, and a daughter, Jennifer (who died in infancy).

Debbie and Walter left show business to start their own public relations firm, Murphy Associates, which had a number of notable clients including Pepsi and Hatteras Yachts.

They then turned toward helping others in the field of alcoholism primarily through their leading roles at Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and the National Council on Alcoholism (NCA).

Together, they worked closely with a long list of celebrities and politicians, including four U.S. presidents. Their collection of photographs with famous people on their office walls was a sight to behold.

Debbie and Walter moved from New York City to their summer home in Tompkins Cove, NY,  then lived for many years in Rye, NY, and retired in Vero Beach, FL.

Walter died in 2000. Debbie eventually met the second love of her life, Billy Mure, and they performed together as “The Top Hats” until Billy’s death in 2013. Debbie continued singing and playing piano professionally for several more years.

In addition to her son Jim, Debbie is survived by her daughter-in-law Robin, and her grandchildren Tripp and Lane, all of whom she loved and who loved her.

Private ceremonies with immediate family members will be held in New York City and Rye, NY.

Debbie’s life was full of love and she wished the same for others. In lieu of flowers, please do something that would make Debbie smile. Perhaps treat someone you love to his or her favorite ice cream.

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