William W. Murphy

Marion- William W. Murphy, age 91, of Marion, passed away at 10:58pm on Saturday, July 19, 2014 at Parkway Manor in Marion.  William was born in Whiteash on December 27, 1922, the son of James Harvey and Helen Elizabeth (Wilson) Murphy. He married Irma J. Headean in Spillertown on September 18, 1946. She passed away on March 23, 2005.  Mr. Murphy retired from teaching at Marion Unit 2 Schools and JohnA.LoganCollege. A longtime volunteer at Heartland Regional Medical Center, he also served as Past President of the First Christian Church Board. He was a member of the Elks, the Illinois Retired Teachers Association, the American Legion, and the Lake of Egypt Country Club. William was known throughout the community as the “pecan man.”  He was an avid golfer and former athletic official and coach. He was active in the Art Starts Program and the Paradise Players Theater group. Mr. Murphy was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. Survivors include his son- Thomas Harvey (Peter) Murphy of Marion Daughter- Jennifer Hudgens of Marion Daughter- Regina Murphy and Mike Durr of Oakland, Maine Son- Bradley Patrick (Sheliah) Murphy of Marion Sister- Helen Pope of Wilmer, Alabama Eight Grandchildren Seven Great Grandchildren Companion- June Minton  He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, five brothers and five sisters.  Funeral services will be held at 11am on Wednesday, July 23, 2014 at Blue Funeral Home in Marion with Rev. Bill Rucker and Rev. Kevin McNeely officiating.  Burial will follow at MaplewoodCemetery in Marion. Visitation will be held from 5-8pm on Tuesday, July 22, 2014 at Blue Funeral Home in Marion.  For those who prefer, memorial donations may be made to The First Christian Church- Disciples of Christ or Hearts Helping Hearts at Heartland Regional Medical Center.  Envelopes will be available and accepted at Blue Funeral Home/ 1704 N. Court St/ Marion, IL  62959.