NEW YORK — Bill Murray, a longtime public affairs leader at MikeWorldWide and one of the firm’s earliest employees, died Sunday after a quiet battle with cancer. He was at home with his family.

Murray was instrumental in building MWW’s public affairs practice, particularly in New Jersey, where he became a deeply trusted advisor to business and policy leaders alike. “He helped put us on the map, especially in New Jersey, through his unmatched expertise in public affairs, policy, and politics,” said MWW founder and CEO Michael Kempner. “More than anything, Bill believed in the power of relationships.”

Known for his relentless work ethic and deep client loyalty, Murray remained active in the business until his final days. “He was emailing clients and colleagues as recently as this week,” Kempner wrote in a LinkedIn tribute. “Bill never stopped giving his all. And in many ways, it’s poetic that he spent his final days doing what he loved most.”

Murray’s humility was also a defining trait. “He didn’t see himself as too senior or too important to take a call, write a memo, or show up when clients needed him—always authentically, earnestly, and with solutions,” Kempner wrote. “Everyone has a ‘Bill story’—and every one of them makes you smile.”

While he kept his illness private, Murray spent recent months making sure his team—and clients—would be in good hands. “That was Bill: always thinking about others,” Kempner said. “He made it clear he wanted us to protect and grow what he built.”

Plans for a celebration of Murray’s life will be shared in the coming days, according to the firm.