A Legacy in Focus: Remembering Waterford photographer Leo Murphy and a special gift from his family

Waterford City has been touched by many talented individuals, and among them, Leo Murphy stands out as someone who truly understood the art of capturing precious moments.

For decades, from his studio on O'Connell Street, Leo was the man behind the lens for countless significant moments in our lives.

Think of the nervous excitement of a wedding day, the innocent smiles at a First Holy Communion, the proud grins at a graduation ceremony, or the warmth of a family portrait – these were the scenes Leo expertly brought to life through his photography.

He didn't just take pictures; he preserved emotions, freezing fleeting moments in time that families would cherish for generations.

His work wasn't merely about technical skill; it was about connecting with people, putting them at ease, and bringing out their true essence in front of the camera.

He truly captured the happiest moments in so many people's lives, becoming an integral part of Waterford's story through his lens.

Now, in a truly heartwarming gesture, Leo's family is offering a unique opportunity to connect with his enduring legacy.

Many of us will remember strolling past Leo's Studio on O'Connell Street and seeing those beautifully displayed photographs in the window or in the studio.

If you were one of the lucky ones whose portrait graced that window, you might be interested to know that your photo may still be there.

Leo's family would like to offer these photographs to their rightful owners. In return for this cherished piece of your history, they simply ask for a donation to a cause close to their hearts: The Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust (KBRT).

The Kevin Bell Trust is an incredible charity that provides vital support and financial assistance to bereaved families who need to repatriate the body of a loved one who has died abroad in sudden or tragic circumstances back to Ireland.

So, if you remember having your photograph in Leo's Studio window, we encourage you to reach out to his family who will be in the studio on Sunday, July 6, from 12pm-5pm for people who would like to pop in and reclaim these photographs.

Not only could you reclaim a precious memory, but you'd also be contributing to an incredibly worthy cause that helps so many.

You can learn more about the work of The Kevin Bell Trust at: https://kbrtrust.com/