Patrick Murphy, managing director of Bristol-based Thornton’s Travel Services, has passed away at the age of 65 following heart failure.
Patrick Murphy was an active member of the Guild of Travel Management Companies (GTMC), having been the representative for Thornton’s Travel for many years.
Anne Godfrey, the GTMC’s CEO, said he would be “sadly missed” by many at the organisation.
“Our thoughts and sympathy go out to Patrick’s wife Carol and to the family at this sad time,” she said.
He was also involved with Advantage Travel. John McEwan, the consortium’s CEO, said: “Patrick was a long standing and active supporter of Advantage and he also served as a director on the board.
“Our thoughts are with Carol, his family and friends.”
Stephen Grove, business development director at Thornton’s Business Travel, said Patrick Murphy was “actively a member of many travel trade institutions”.
Sharing his memories with ABTN, Grove said he was described by many as “larger than life”.
“Patrick was not only celebrating his 65th year but his 50th in the travel industry,” said Grove.
Patrick Murphy joined the family-run Thornton’s Travel Service in 1967 and has been its managing director since 1979.
“He loved all sport and would be seen by many in the trade on a golf course or two,” said Grove.
“He was passionate about horse racing with his infamous ‘NAP’ car number plate. He also loved cricket, snooker and was a keen Bristol Rovers supporter.”
Colleagues from the business travel industry have been invited to join friends and family at the funeral on August 24 at 1pm. It will be held at Christ Church on Clifton Down Road in Bristol.
The family has asked for those attending to wear colourful attire, and instead of flowers donations to an organisation supported by Murphy, the Under Privileged Children’s Charity, would be appreciated.
The church ceremony will be followed by a private cremation attended by family members only.
For further details on the funeral, please email Stephen Grove at stepheng@thorntonstravel.co.uk