George 'Murphy' Hesnan, 86, Junior Sports League Member In Brick

PORT ST. LUCIE, FL — George “Murphy” James Hesnan, a longtime resident of Brick who was involved in the Junior Sports League and Knights of Columbus before moving to Florida, has died, his family said.

George, 86, died of natural causes on June 13, 2021 in Port St. Lucie, according to his obituary on the Millenium Cremation Service website.

George was born in Lehigh, PA, as the second of four children to William and Marie Hesnan. After graduating St. Michael’s High School in Jersey City and Seton Hall University, where he was a four-year scholarship athlete, George enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served for six years, rising to the rank of lieutenant and receiving many commendations as a Navy deep sea diver. He left the Navy, taking the great advice of his loving wife of 63 years, Joan, to pursue a career in business. George became a highly successful general agent for Allstate Insurance, a career that lasted more than 30 years. During that time, he and his wife Joan opened an exceedingly popular tavern called Hesnan's Pine Inn. While raising their family in Brick, George was very active in town affairs and clubs. He was a member of the Junior Sports League, Rotary Club, and Knights of Columbus, and was a communicant of St. Dominic’s Roman Catholic Church. George and Joan retired to Florida in 2000.

George is predeceased by his parents; his wonderful brothers, Pat and Bill; and his beloved
nephew Billy. George is survived by his ever-loving wife Joan; his loving sister Peg; his devoted children and their spouses, Kevin and Barbara Hesnan; Kathy and Rich Wodraska; Greg and Sharon Hesnan; and Judy Hesnan. He is also survived by grandchildren Bryane, Kyle, Ryan and Jaime, Connor, Samantha, and his great-grandchildren Charlie and Amelia, and his lifelong friend John Jackson, as well as canine companions Bo and Hiccup. He will be missed by his nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and loyal friends, the sum of which could fill a stadium.

George’s passion was sports, from peewees to pros, but his true love was his family and all they did. Whether it was drama, sports, or dance, he never missed an event in which his grandchildren participated. He was happiest when he was with them. While he will be missed with all of our hearts, he is now at home with his family and friends that he always knew in faith that he would be with again. A Celebration of Life will be held at future date.