Donald F. Murtagh

Donald F. Murtagh, of Landenberg, PA, formerly of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on November 30, 2020, at age 97. He grew up in Malone, New York, and graduated from Franklin Academy. He enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corps and became a pilot while serving his country in the South Atlantic Transport Command during World War II. He received a Bachelor of Mathematics from Western Carolina University, and earned Master’s degrees in Mathematics and Education from the University of Delaware.

In 1954, Donald began his teaching career at William Penn High School in New Castle, DE, and chaired the Mathematics Department until he retired after 30 years of public service. After retirement he taught at Padua Academy, the University of Delaware, Cecil County Community College, MD, and was also a literacy volunteer.

His greatest joy was spending time with his “darling” wife, and his family and friends. He enjoyed fly fishing, gardening, playing poker, chess, reading, watching football, and collecting vintage slide-rules: a mechanical analog computer. We all loved listening to his stories and poetry, reading his email tidbits, and hearing him sing his beloved Irish songs and silly, but treasured, ditties. The grandchildren are very thankful for the truly special times they shared with their Grandpa.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Virginia Laine Murtagh; his son, Paul Murtagh (Karen), and daughter, Holly Murtagh Shinn (Rich); stepchildren, Janice Laine Scotton (Jim), Jeffrey Laine, and Alison Laine Zucker, (Larry); six grandchildren, Melissa, Sara, Daniel, Shannon, Mikayla and Dylan; and many nieces and nephews.

Donald was a devoted teacher in life and chose to become a donor to the Anatomical Gift Program at the University of Delaware, which benefits future health professionals in their educational preparation to help others. With his generous gift, he continues to teach even after his passing. Donald was a devout member of St. Gabriel of the Sorrowful Mother, Avondale, PA.

The family would like to thank Bayada Hospice of Media, PA for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to a charity of their choice.

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Funeral Services

A celebration of Donald’s life will take place at a later date.

Condolences

Karin McClung lit a candle and writes,

Thank you Uncle Donald for all the memories and the lifetime of being related to you which was an honor xoxo Aunt Ginny I love you xoxo

12/05/2020 12:16 am

Bob Murtagh lit a candle and writes,

I’m 56 now and remember my Beautiful Uncle taking over my Bedroom when he was courting Aunt Ginny. “Dandy Don” gave me my first fishing pole and taught me how to fish. I loved Uncle Donald and look forward to seeing him again!!! Aunt Ginny and family all my condolences , love you all. Special Man, Special Good Life.

12/05/2020 09:27 am

Rosemary (Lenoir) Stewart writes,

I was a student of Mr. Murtagh 50 years ago. He was a really good teacher, who made me understand concepts in math that no other teacher managed to do. God bless him and keep him. My sincere condolences to his family. We were blessed to have him ❤️

12/05/2020 07:54 pm

Richard Farmer writes,

I am very saddened to learn of Don's passing. Having been a student of Don's and later becoming an administrator at William Penn High School, I found Don to be the classic mathematics teacher....relentless in pursuing the math education of his students. He will be in our hearts forever.

12/06/2020 06:42 am

Bruce A. Bendler writes,

To the Murtagh family, I wish to offer my condolences on the passing or Mr. Murtagh, who was my math teacher at William Penn High School. I was a student in his Functional Math class for four years, from 1965 to 1969. I can truly say that because of Mr. Murtagh's teaching, I learned analytical and reasoning skills that have served me well ever since. He was a great teacher. He loved his subject and cared for his students. I hope that you will find comfort in the fact that Mr. Murtagh enriched many lives, my own being one example. Bruce A. Bendler William Penn High School, Class of 1969

12/06/2020 01:36 pm

Monte Banning writes,

I'm very sorry for your loss. I remember when you lived next door to us. Sending prayers for all of you.

12/06/2020 09:21 pm

Diane Thompson & David Ludema writes,

Dear Paul & Karen & family, So sorry to learn of your father‘s passing. What a glorious and fulfilling life he had! We know you miss him greatly but the memories of his accomplishments will carry you through the years.

12/07/2020 06:20 am

Ray & Donna Poniatowski lit a candle

12/07/2020 10:15 am

Margaret Lunt writes,

I was Mr. Murtagh's student over 60 years ago, and I still have great memories of him. He was the kindest teacher I ever had. I had him for Geometry, and it was not my best subject. If it wasn't for him, I never would have passed Geometry. He truly was a special teacher. The best part is, my daughter got to have him as a teacher also, and he is her absolute favorite teacher ever. My condolences to his family, but please know, he was a much loved teacher.

12/07/2020 11:06 am

Robyn Morgan writes,

To Paul and Holly, I will never forget your dad as a neighbor and a teacher. His patience while teaching math helped many of us graduate. Robyn Morgan

12/08/2020 12:22 am

Christiane May Tuoni lit a candle and writes,

I grew up with Don and his children and hope you have peace in knowing he left a wonderful impression on me as a child visiting my parents home and we visiting theirs, and always being a really sweet person and kind man. Thoughts and Prayers for you and your family. Christy

12/08/2020 12:14 pm

Mary Alice Murtagh Howerton lit a candle and writes,

I have no words that can express the loss of Uncle Donald. My thoughts are with Aunt Ginny, and my cousins.

12/18/2020 10:23 am

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