Donations to fund the cremation of a homeless man who died last week are close to the amount needed.

Roanoke Rapids police Chief Chuck Hasty said this afternoon any excess funds raised for Edward Lee Murphy will be donated to Union Mission.

Murphy, 55, who slept under the Interstate 95 overpass at Becker Driver Extension, died from an untreated medical condition, Hasty said Monday.

“The community stepped up,” Hasty said of the donations to cover the cremation expenses. “We have a caring community who always steps up when something is needed.”

Murphy had been found in critical condition in the middle of November and the police department then sought members of his family.

Family members were located in the High Point area.

With news of his passing, a candlelight vigil in Murphy’s honor is planned for 7 p.m. Thursday at the overpass where he lived.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own candles.