DALLAS — Edward “Ed” L. Murph III, owner of the beloved Dallas diner Norma’s Cafe, passed away on Feb. 23 at age 78, the company announced.
Murph, who grew up in Oak Cliff, first fell in love with Norma’s Cafe as a child and later purchased the restaurant from Norma herself more than 30 years ago. Under his leadership, the diner grew to seven locations across Oak Cliff, Trinity Mills, Frisco, Park Lane, Garland, Fairview, and Plano.
“The Norma’s Cafe Family is saddened by the loss of our leader, mentor and friend, Ed Murph,” said Kurt Metzger, vice president of operations. “We honor Ed’s legacy and we will continue to serve our DFW guests with appreciation and gratitude, keeping Ed in our hearts each and every day.”
Murph’s career included roles as a Coke driver, painter, and sales representative for a communications equipment company, according to The Dallas Morning News. He was the only child of Edward L. and Ruth Murph and often said, “We make more than great comfort food; we make great friends and memories.”
Norma’s Cafe, established in 1956, will celebrate its 70th anniversary in 2026.
