David Franklin Murphy, 87, passed away Wednesday, June 21, 2017.
He was born Aug. 20, 1929, in Hartshorn, Okla., son of William Harvey and Willie Mae Coulston Murphy. He and Bernice Elinor Engstrum were married June 19, 1953.
He attended Delano High School in California, excelling in track, football and academics.
He enlisted in the Navy in 1948. He served through the Korean War aboard the destroyer USS Repurtis. Two weeks after his discharge, he worked at the Los Angeles Chrysler plant making parts for Nike missiles.
He and his wife, Bernice, resided in California for 19 years. They moved to Missouri in 1971 and lived in High Ridge for 11 years.
When he retired from the Fenton Chrysler plant in 1982, he and Bernice moved to Licking. They lived there 35 years raising iris, blueberries, beagles, chickens, cows and cane.
He enjoyed making sorghum molasses, apple butter, lard, hominy and honey and learning to call square dances.
He coached boys and girls a total of 50 years in Missouri and California. He was an active member in the Democratic Club, VFW, Texas County Genealogical Society and especially Licking High School boosters. He also helped research and mark the Trail of Tears through Texas County.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his wife, Bernice; a daughter, Denise Lutes; two grandchildren; two sisters, Betty Macho and Pearl Moll; a brother, Ed Murphy; and many relatives and friends.
Memorial services are 10 a.m. Thursday, July 15, at Fox Funeral Home. Visitation is 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 14, at the funeral home. A brief graveside service will be held in Shafer Cemetery with Pastor Rick Mosher officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to Licking High School Booster Club. Online condolences may be made at www.fox.net.
