Francis J. "Frank" Murphy

Francis J. "Frank" Murphy, 70, of Atglen, PA, joined his beloved wife, Letitia “Tish” Bailey, in death on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at the Chester County Hospital in West Chester, PA. They shared 38 years of friendship and marriage. Born in Bryn Mawr, PA, Frank was the son of the late James T. Murphy, Sr. and Jean Wack Murphy.

A 1973 graduate of Archbishop John Carroll High School in Radnor, PA, he completed his education graduating from Temple University with a bachelor's degree in political science.

He was employed for many years on the Strawbridge Estate in Goshen, PA, as an estate manager in charge of the gardens and grounds. He was instrumental in assisting the farm in winning various awards for floral and livestock during his tenure.

Sharing Tish’s adventures, Frank was an avid outdoorsman, gardener, and pet collector. He possessed an extensive breadth of knowledge and expertise across a wide range of subjects. Together, they enjoyed time by the water; whether it be in Stone Harbor, NJ; Outer Banks, NC; Chesapeake City, MD; or on the Chesapeake. After Tish’s death, Frank honored her by continuing to support many charitable causes in her name.

He is survived by two stepdaughters, Jane Kohlenstein and husband Brad of West Orange, NJ and Katherine Bailey and husband Jason Seip of Supply, NC. Frank is also survived by his five siblings: Margaret "Midge" Regester and husband Dan of Holmes, PA; Mary Quilter and husband Fran of Ocean View, NJ; Barbara Panarello of Drexel Hill, PA; James T. Murphy, Jr. and wife Justine of Lansdowne, PA; and Mark Murphy and partner Annie of Drexel Hill, PA. Frank also leaves behind four pride-and-joy grandchildren: Nevin Seip, Isabel Seip, Violet Kohlenstein, and Henry Kohlenstein, as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Shelia McLaughlin.

At Frank’s request, services will be private. A memorial to celebrate his life is being arranged and will occur soon.

Instead of flowers, donations may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (3803 West Chester Pike, Suite 217, Newtown Square, PA 19073) or the National Audubon Society (act.audubon.org)

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Wilde Funeral Home of Parkesburg, PA. Online condolences can be posted at www.wildefuneralhome.com