James R. Murphy

James R. Murphy, known by his family and friends as Jim or Murph, was surrounded by the love of family as he passed away early Sunday morning, January 31, 2021, at the age of 74.  Always a warrior, he fought through an eight month battle with brain cancer while keeping an optimistic outlook and smile on his face.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Linda Wilson Murphy (née Aliff); his children, Michael Murphy (wife Amy Murphy), Joseph “Buck” Murphy, Shane Murphy, Thomas Wilson, Jr., Kerry Wilson-Green (husband Jeremy Green), and Tafra Murphy Hayes (husband Marc Hayes); his grandchildren, Jesse Murphy, Seth Murphy, Cherish Murphy, Bailey Murphy, Brooke Wilson, Xavior Wilson, Jayden Hayes, and Zachary Hayes; his sisters, Jean Marie Morris (husband Gary Morris), Theresa McHenry (husband Bob McHenry), and Catherine Murphy Webster (husband J. Daron Webster).  He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews whom he adored.

Jim was born in Kansas on June 7, 1946 to Robert Murphy and Thelma Murphy (née Vossen), both deceased.  He graduated from Ellinwood High School in 1964 and enlisted in the United States Air Force, initially serving in Vietnam as a radio operator and subsequently as Air Force National Security, prior to his retirement after 20 years in 1984. His government service continued with the Department of Defense for another 27 years.   He retired in 2011 after his last change of station to NCPAC in Hawaii, where he and Lin called home.  

An amazing husband, father, brother, uncle, son, and even more incredible Pop-Pop, Jim was devoted to his family. He traveled the world while serving his country and was eager to share his knowledge and trivia with everyone.  He never knew a stranger.  His bright smile lit up a room, and the twinkle in his blue eyes warned you that his stories were not all completely true.  He was always the life of any party; he frequently dressed up in costume on Halloween to hand out candy, and delighted children – and adults alike - dressed as a pirate for a child’s birthday party.  He came to love the game of golf and worked the Sony and Lotte tournaments in Hawaii.  He was named Chairman of the Year for the Sony.  He was a great friend and has friends spanning the globe.  His unlimited knowledge and desire to teach others made him a cherished mentor to those of all ages.  Jim’s greatest joy in life was his grandchildren.   He loved to take them to museums, Disney World, the beach, the movies, and play mini-golf.  He taught them how to ride their bikes and play dominos.  He taught them the importance of history and ancestry. He always offered encouragement to his children and grandchildren through their tough times in life, and beamed with pride in all of their accomplishments.   Jim will be remembered as intelligent, honorable, humble, and remarkable; but he will be held in our hearts for his love, devotion, compassion, and humor.  He will be deeply missed by all of his family, friends, and even the acquaintances with whom he made lasting impressions.

To honor his 47 years of service to our country, Jim will be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery.  Service details will be forthcoming.