Donovan Murphy

Donovan Tawney Murphy, a man of immense heart and quiet strength, passed away peacefully at his home in Federalsburg, Maryland, on February 17, 2026. Born on August 30, 1984, in Cambridge, Maryland, Donovan was a man whose roots ran deep in the soil of the Eastern Shore, where he spent his life embracing the beauty of its woods and waterways. He was the beloved son of Deborah Myers Murphy and the late David Murphy.

Just as he was a man of many talents, Donovan was known by many names. Depending on where you met him or how well you knew him, he was affectionately called Donnie, Bubba, Don, Big D, or simply D. Each nickname was a badge of friendship and a reflection of the many lives he touched.

A 2002 graduate of Colonel Richardson High School, Donovan was a tireless worker whose career reflected his versatile skills. In his early years, he worked at Ed Collins Greenhouses in Harmony, MD. He went on to serve as a service technician for Tri-Gas & Oil, an equipment operator for Barkers Landing Excavation, and the grocery manager at Lou's Discount Groceries in Laurel, DE. Donovan also spent significant time working alongside his brother, David, assisting with various projects and his business, Stumps Plus. Following this, he was a clerk at Marshy Hope Hardware in Federalsburg and was self-employed selling produce, a role that allowed him to connect with the local community. Most recently, he was self-employed as a property maintenance technician-a role that perfectly suited his "handyman" spirit and willingness to help anyone in need.

Donovan was most at home in the quiet corners of nature. He was an avid hunter and fisherman who loved the freedom of his motorcycle, riding wherever the road took him. To those who knew him, he was the personification of selflessness. He was the first to arrive when a neighbor needed help and the last to leave a project unfinished. He was famous for literally giving the shirt off his back, leaving a legacy of compassion that his family hopes will inspire others to lead with kindness.

His memory will be cherished by his mother, Deborah Myers Murphy; his stepmother, Stacey Murphy; his brothers, David Murphy (Cheryl), Christopher Willey (Morgan), and Ashur Murphy; and his sister, Susan Murphy. His legacy also lives on through his seven nieces and nephews, along with a large circle of aunts, uncles, and cousins who adored him. He also leaves behind a very special little girl, Addie, who held a permanent and cherished place in his heart. He was preceded in death by his father, David Murphy, and his stepfather, Charlie Myers.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date for family and friends. Those wishing to share photos, videos, or memories to be compiled and shared at the celebration are invited to email them to rememberingdonovan@gmail.com.

Donovan's life was defined by quiet acts of service. The best way to honor his memory is to simply be there for someone else-to offer a hand or a smile when it's needed most, exactly as he did every day.