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Massapequa Today
By the People, for the People
Safavieh Veteran Designer Joe Murphy Dies at 82
Murphy pioneered in-house design associates to assist customers at Safavieh stores.
Published on Feb. 11, 2026
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Joseph E. Murphy, Jr., the head designer for Safavieh Home Furnishings for over 20 years, passed away peacefully on February 7th at the age of 82. Murphy was credited with pioneering the concept of in-house design associates to better assist customers in Safavieh's retail stores.
Why it matters
Murphy was a long-time veteran of the home furnishings industry and played a key role in the growth and success of the Safavieh retail chain. His innovative merchandising and trend forecasting helped drive the company's expansion over the years.
The details
Murphy began his career in advertising before pursuing his passion for design, studying at Parsons School of Design and Pratt Institute. He later opened a design studio, Lifestyle Interiors, in The Hamptons before being hired by Safavieh to open the company's flagship furniture and design stores in New York City and Connecticut. He served as Safavieh's head designer for over 20 years.
- Murphy passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026.
- Murphy was born on May 23, 1943 in New York City.
The players
Joseph E. Murphy, Jr.
A retail home furnishings veteran who was head designer for Safavieh Home Furnishings for two decades prior to retirement.
Michael Yaraghi
The president of the 10-store Safavieh chain, which has locations in New Jersey, New York and Connecticut.
What they’re saying
“Joe contributed greatly to the growth and success of our retail group and pioneered the concept of in-house design associates to better assist our customers.”
— Michael Yaraghi, President, Safavieh (hometextilestoday.com)
The takeaway
Murphy's innovative approach to customer service and his contributions to Safavieh's growth over two decades highlight the lasting impact that dedicated industry veterans can have on a company's success.
