Brian J. Murray

The family of Brian J. Murray has announced the passing of their beloved patriarch at the age of 73.
Brian died peacefully on Feb. 11 after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife JoAnne, his children Glenn, Joanne and James, his grandchildren Brian, Marisa, Angelina, Keegan and Daniel, and his siblings Mathew, Jeanne, Marian and Anthony, and scores of friends and partners in business who he viewed and treated as family.
Brian was a highly principled man who channeled his many talents and boundless energy into a lifetime of worthy accomplishments.
He was married to his beloved wife JoAnne for 52 years. Together since they were 16 and 14 respectively, they shared a full, remarkable and exciting life punctuated by an indestructible bond of mutual respect and adoration.
He was one of the very first technology entrepreneurs and was most widely known for having established B. J. Murray, Inc. in 1975. His ground-breaking property management software platform quickly became the gold standard that for decades served many of the most recognized real estate firms throughout New York City and the country. Of his many successful ventures over the years, he was particularly proud of the patent he was awarded in 2017 for his latest invention, YuNi Biographics.
Brian was born in St. Albans on Dec. 22, 1945, to Mathew and Genevieve Murray. From his early childhood through to his late teens, he was featured as an actor and model in countless TV commercials and shows, print advertisements and movies, as well as Broadway plays and musical recordings. He attended St. John’s University and received his bachelor’s degree at SUNY Albany in 1967.
Brian spent most of his adult life on Long Island. He raised his three children in Plandome Manor, then spent several years in Amagansett before finally settling in Garden City.
Fishing was his absolute favorite pastime and one that he most enjoyed sharing with his children, grandchildren and friends. Fly-fishing the Battenkill, Neversink and Beaverkill rivers for trout. Surf-casting the beaches of Amagansett and Manhasset Bay for stripers and blues. Prowling the offshore canyons day and night for tuna. These were his idea of the perfect day.
And, of course, no occasion was without Brian camera in hand. Whether you were there or not, you could bet your life on a professional quality video documentary coming your way after each adventure. His endless catalog of videos and pictures is his lifelong gift to his family and friends that will keep them smiling and laughing for generations to come.
Brian adored his five grandchildren and was an integral part of their daily lives. He was a constant presence at games, concerts, graduations and other life events. Whether in person, on the phone or by email, he served up a steady supply of advice, encouragement and admiration to each. Most importantly, he served as the consummate role model for them through his example of integrity, passion for hard work and enthusiasm for life.
Brian was a social person. He was outgoing, effervescent and kind. His personality was infectious, as he was always in a great mood and he could always be counted on to come up with just the right joke at just the right time. Though sober and responsible, he was truly the life of the party.
The world has lost a wonderful man, an enormous presence—both personally and professionally—and a pure gentleman whose humble commitment to those he loved will surely endure. Brian will be deeply missed. His example and vitality will remain forever in the hearts of those who loved and admired him.