James Patrick "Pat" Murphy
February 26, 1954 – May 15, 2026

James Patrick "Pat" Murphy, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, mentor, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, in Tomball, Texas, after a brief illness. With his loving family by his side, we shared a heartfelt bedside prayer service in his final moments. He was 72 years old.

Born at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska to Thomas and Eloise Murphy, Pat lived a life defined by service, integrity, faith in others, and devotion to family. He graduated from Louisiana Tech University with a double major in Sociology and Spanish and went on to build an accomplished professional career spanning more than 45 years.

Pat began his career in law enforcement before advancing to senior leadership roles in corporate security and operations management. Drawing on decades of experience and an entrepreneurial spirit, he founded LPT Security Consulting. Through his expertise in forensic premises liability, Pat became one of the nation's most respected and sought-after expert witnesses, assisting attorneys in litigation across the country. Several of his expert opinions helped shape landmark legal decisions. A lifelong learner, educator, and mentor, Pat generously shared his knowledge through teaching, mentoring, and publishing numerous articles on premises liability, leaving a lasting impact on both the legal and security professions.

While Pat took great pride in his professional accomplishments, his greatest joy was always his family. On May 28, 1983, he married the love of his life and soulmate, Wanda Jean Bell. Together, they built a marriage founded on love, partnership, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Over the next 43 years, they raised three wonderful children and created a home filled with music, encouragement, cherished traditions, and countless treasured memories. Their enduring love and commitment served as an inspiration to all who knew them.

Pat was deeply committed to his community. For more than 15 years, he coached youth basketball at the Cypress Creek YMCA, mentoring not only his own children but many others as well, positively impacting the lives of countless young athletes and their families. Long after their playing days ended, many continued to affectionately call him simply "Coach," a testament to the lasting impression he made on those he guided.

Beyond his professional life and coaching career, Pat embraced his many interests with energy and enthusiasm. He earned a black belt in Taekwondo and was an accomplished guitarist who loved spending time with his Martin guitars and other instruments. Music was a constant presence in his life, and he especially enjoyed the work of Chet Atkins and Stevie Ray Vaughan. Pat also had a passion for gardening and took great pride in creating and maintaining a beautiful yard and landscape. He was a devoted cat lover and proud "Cat Dad" to Callie, Harley, and Riley, who held a special place in his heart.

Pat will be remembered for his wisdom, generosity, quick wit, signature sarcasm, tenacity, steadfast character, and unwavering love for those around him. His influence lives on in the countless lives he touched, both personally and professionally, and in the lessons, memories, and values he shared so freely. Though he is deeply missed, his legacy will continue through the family, friends, colleagues, and community members who were fortunate to know and love him.

Pat was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Eloise Murphy, and his sister, Judy Murphy Melton.

Pat is survived by his beloved wife of 43 years, Wanda Murphy; his children, Brian Murphy and his wife, Tammy; Katelyn Murphy Sclafani and her husband, Michael; and Melissa Murphy Baglio and her husband, Steve. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Caleb, Kinley, Cooper, and Olivia; his brothers, Tom "Mike" Murphy and his wife, June, and Pete Murphy and his wife, Wyndy; his sister-in-law, Vivian Kumler; his brother-in-law, Jerry Bell and his wife, Linda; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, and colleagues who were blessed to know and love him.

A private family interment will be held at Klein Memorial Park.

Details for a Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Family and friends will gather to honor Pat in the way he would have loved most—with stories, laughter, music, and the fellowship of those whose lives were touched by his kindness, wisdom, and friendship.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made in James Patrick Murphy's memory to the D. Bradley McWilliams YMCA at Cypress Creek, supporting youth programs that reflected his lifelong commitment to mentoring and encouraging young people. Donation information: https://ymcahouston.org/give-form

Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother, Friend and "Coach" – Pat's legacy of love, service, and generosity will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Arrangements in the care of Klein Funeral Home.