One of the state’s most respected public affairs professionals, Bill Murray of MikeWorldWide, died June 12 at the age of 67.

Murray most recently served as executive vice president/national director, Public Affairs. He was with MWW for 35 years.

MWW founder and CEO Michael Kempner shared the heartbreaking news. He remembered his longtime friend and colleague in a touching social media post.

“As some of you know, Bill had been quietly battling cancer for some time,” said Kempner. “In true Bill fashion, he kept working through it, never wanting the spotlight, never asking for sympathy. He took a sudden turn over the past few days and passed away yesterday afternoon, peacefully at home with his family by his side.”

Kempner noted how Murray was one of the earliest members of the MWW family.

“He helped put us on the map, especially in New Jersey, through his unmatched expertise in public affairs, policy, and politics,” said Kempner. “More than anything, Bill believed in the power of relationships. He always showed up – whether at a Chamber of Commerce breakfast or a one-on-one client meeting. He was famous for calling from ‘just past Parsippany, on the side of some NJ highway,’ always ready to help, always in motion.”

Pointing out that Murray was still emailing clients and colleagues as recently as this week, Kempner described it as poetic that he spent his final days doing what he loved most.

He helped put us on the map, especially in New Jersey, through his unmatched expertise in public affairs, policy, and politics.
– Michael Kempner, MWW founder and CEO

“Bill never sought the limelight. He didn’t see himself as too senior or too important to take a call, write a memo, or show up when clients needed him – always authentically, earnestly, and with solutions.”

Honoring Murray’s legacy

Kempner said it is hard to imagine MWW without Bill.

“Before he passed, he made it clear he wanted us to protect and grow what he built – to make sure everyone knows MWW remains the pride of New Jersey, our clients are well cared for, and we continue to be a force to be reckoned with,” said Kempner. “That is exactly what we will do. New Jersey is where we were founded, and it remains at the heart of who we are. We will carry Bill’s legacy forward with pride, purpose and passion.”

The tribute closed with Kempner noting that Murray’s family is planning a celebration of his life – with details to come.

“We’re also working on the best ways to honor Bill’s legacy and his extraordinary impact on our firm, our industry, and the state he loved so deeply.”

Everyone here at NJBIZ sends our deepest condolences to Murray’s family, friends and MWW colleagues.