Remembering Fran Murphy
Dec. 13th, 2024 10:26 am
It's with a heavy heart that I write this blog to honor the life of Fran Murphy, a man whose time at Camp Good Days touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him. Fran was truly special—a devoted educator, an inspiring leader, and a kind soul who embodied the spirit of Camp.
I first met Fran many years ago. He was the brother of Kathy Murphy, one of our longest volunteers from the very beginning of Camp. Like his sister, Fran was drawn to the mission of Camp Good Days, and it wasn't long before he became deeply involved. As a professional educator, he brought a unique perspective and endless creativity to everything he did. Fran didn't just volunteer at camp—he became part of its heart and soul.
The campers gravitated toward Fran from the moment they met him, drawn by his warmth, enthusiasm, and genuine love for what he did. He had a knack for connecting with them in meaningful ways and came up with so many incredible projects that brought joy and learning to their experience. Whether teaching them how to paddle a canoe, leading them on nature walks, or simply looking at the constellations in the sky while sharing his many stories, Fran had a way of making every moment at camp special.
Fran's contributions extended beyond the activities he led. He transformed spaces and created traditions that campers cherished. He made the nature shed flourish, turning it into one of the most beloved spots at camp. Whether he was feeding the snakes, talking about the animals around the campgrounds, or taking campers fishing, Fran had a way of making the natural world come alive for everyone. It wasn't long before he earned the affectionate title of "Mr. Nature," a testament to his unique role at camp and the impact he had on so many lives.
In addition to his work outdoors, Fran and his wife, Lisa, brought the camp community closer together through the Camp Newspaper, a project they created during their time at camp. Together, they wrote and distributed the newspaper, which was filled with stories about volunteers and campers, updates on upcoming activities, and reflections on the magical moments happening at camp. It was a thoughtful and creative idea that truly captured the essence of life at Camp Good Days.
Beyond his time at camp, Fran built an extraordinary career in education, serving as a leader in schools and universities across the globe. His roles ranged from guiding school districts as a superintendent to mentoring aspiring educators as a professor and dean. Fran had a gift for inspiring others—whether students, teachers, or colleagues—and his innovative vision left a profound impact on every community he served. His passion for education wasn't just a profession; it was a lifelong commitment to making the world a better place through learning and leadership.
The last time I saw Fran was over the summer at the Buffalo Bills training camp at St. John Fisher University. Even in that brief encounter, his kindness and passion for life shone through. Fran had a rare gift for making those around him feel better simply by being in his presence.
Thinking about Fran's life and his many contributions, it's clear how deeply he impacted those he met. His influence at Camp Good Days will be felt for years to come, woven into the traditions and memories he helped create. Fran wasn't just a volunteer; he was part of our family, a consistent presence who made us all better by simply being here.
As we say goodbye, we carry with us the many lessons he taught and the joy he shared so generously. Fran, your memory will remain a guiding light for all of us. Rest in peace, dear friend—you will never be forgotten.
