“Big” Jim Murphy Memorial

J. James Murphy, Elder Class of 1947, was one of Elder’s many prodigious athletes who, before he entered high school, was renowned for his athletic capabilities demonstrated as a youth growing up in St. William parish. Probably most recognized for his football prowess unleashed at “The Pit” and elsewhere, he graduated from Elder to play football at Xavier University where he was a member of Xavier’s 1950 Salad Bowl Champion team (Xavier’s only bowl championship). A “dyed in the wool” Irishman to the core, “Big Jim,” as he was affectionally addressed, was a loyal member of the ancient Order of Hibernians, and once upon a time (in March of 1967), was the man who secured the permit for the first Cincinnati St. Patrick’s Day Parade. He and his remarkably lovely wife, Suzanne, nurtured a family of five children and more, graciously sharing their home with others in need. For those who were privileged to know “Big Jim,” they will not forget him and it is unlikely that those who only knew “of him” will either. His longstanding commitment to Elder, his Catholic faith, and “to the higher things” will, through this scholarship fund, carry forward,; hopefully, to the benefit of Elder students for years to come.