William Joseph Murphy

William Joseph Murphy (Big Bill), father of William Joseph Murphy Jr., Kerry Dyslin Hirner, and Kelly James, passed away on August 24th in Logan, Utah. Bill was born on Sept. 9, 1921, in New York City, he was the second of three children to James Lawrence Murphy and Margaret O’Donnell. He was raised in New York City, during The Great Depression. His many and grand adventures as a child and young adult usually ended in mischief, and he loved sharing these stories with anyone who would listen.
He married Helen Menehan on Dec. 20, 1941 in New York. After honorably serving in the Navy during World War II, "The Murphys" left the city and headed out to the potato fields of Long Island, purchasing one of the original Leavitt homes. There they raised a son and two daughters while Bill worked as a New York City police officer. Bill enjoyed his many years of retirement in California. He loved traveling and visiting his children and grandchildren. At the age of 93 he relocated to Utah to be close to family.
He is survived by his three children, William Joseph (Colleen), Kerry Maureen Hirner (George), Kelly Kathleen James (Bruce); honorary son, Roger Flair; grandchildren: Kevin Dyslin, Kathleen Reece, Maureen Fiefia, Joshua James, Jason James, Maggie Porter; niece, Mary-Ann Murphy; and eleven great-grandchildren.
A viewing will be held at Nelson Funeral Home from 6:00-8:00 PM on Thursday August 30th. There will be a short service at 12:00 PM on Friday August 31st. Graveside services with full military honors will be held at Millville Cemetery following the service.
In the words of Big Bill “See ya later kid…”
Condolences and memories may be shared online at www.nelsonfuneralhome.com