The paper is the first attempt to summarize and analyse the scientific legacy of the notable British arachnologist John Alan Murphy (1922–2021) based on his publications and archival materials available at the Manchester Museum, UK. It presents a brief biography of J. Murphy, a critical analysis of his publications, particularly of his three substantial books, details of field trips undertaken with his wife Frances Murphy (1926–1995) in over 45 years and a short description of the rich, worldwide spider collection assembled by John and Frances. The paper is richly illustrated by photos obtained from colleagues who personally knew John Murphy and copies of archival items from the Manchester Museum.