Long-time Chelsea residents were saddened to learn of the passing last week of Bobby Fee, a lifelong resident who was a legendary figure in our community.
Bobby was one of the greatest athletes ever to don a Red Devil uniform. He was a standout in football, track, and basketball and went on to star for the Indiana University football team.
Bob was the last player to be cut by the Boston Patriots in their inaugural season in 1960 and continued to play football with the semi-professional Chelsea Nu-Way Sweepers. Though Bobby was a big guy, he took up long-distance running after his playing days were over and completed 30 marathons.
Bob also was the head coach of the Chelsea High football team in the early ‘80s, which included a memorable comeback from a 20-0 deficit to beat Everett on Thanksgiving Day in 1980 during his tenure.
However, for those of us who knew this wonderful man, what was most memorable about Bob was his always-pleasant and unflappable demeanor. He was a true gentleman in every respect.
We know we speak for all of our fellow residents in expressing our sincere condolences to his sons, Bob Jr. and Kevin, his extended family, and his many friends. May he rest in peace.
Kevin Murphy
Chelsea lost one of our all-time lifelong residents with the passing this past week of Kevin Murphy, the long-time clerk magistrate of the Chelsea District Court, at the age of 83.
Kevin was a Chelsea guy through-and-through. He was one (and the last surviving sibling) of the nine children of former alderman Andrew (who ran for mayor in the 1950s) and Anna Murphy, graduating from St. Rose School and Chelsea High School, Class of 1961.
After his graduation, Kevin worked at a part-time position in the courthouse in Boston and turned it into a lifelong career, eventually serving in the Suffolk Superior Court for many years, including in the role of assistant clerk, before being named the clerk magistrate of the Chelsea District Court in 1994, a post he held until his passing.
We know we join with all of our fellow residents in offering our condolences to his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Virginia, their three children, and their large extended family and many friends. May he rest in peace.