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BORN
1923
DIED
2015
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William Murphy Obituary
Jan. 29, 1923 - Oct. 20, 2015
Resident of Watsonville
William "Bill" Pirie Murphy passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family at the age of 92, three months short of his 93rd birthday.
Bill was born in Corcoran, CA, spent time in Detroit, MI and settled in Santa Cruz County for the last 82 years. Bill was an exemplary example of what has been called the Greatest Generation. These are men and women who developed values of personal responsibility, duty, honor and faith. One of the proudest periods in his life was as a staff sergeant in Weapons Co, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, 3rd Amphibious Corp serving his country in the South Pacific during WWII.
After returning from the war, Bill married Elizabeth Burns from San Francisco in 1948 and raised their 5 children in Watsonville.
In the early years he operated his own business, Murphy Pump & Supply with his father.
Bill continued on the path of duty and service by serving as city alderman, councilman and Mayor of Watsonville as well as being a volunteer fireman. After selling the family business he became the Director of the Watsonville Chamber of Commerce. After being appointed in 1973 as Santa Cruz County Treasurer Tax Collector, he successfully won 5 re-elections and retired in 1994. He was a member in and supporter of the Elks, Knights of Columbus, VFW and American Legion to name a few. Bill was a strong believer in his Catholic faith and led his life accordingly. He attended Mass regularly and was of service to many.
He is survived by his children Kathleen Murphy, William and Chonticha Murphy, Matthew and Loretta Murphy, Tim Dougherty and Patricia and Clyde Brett. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Bill was preceded in death by his wife Betty and his daughter Margaret Dougherty.
There will be a viewing from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Mehl's Colonial Chapel on Monday, October 26th with a recitation of the rosary at 7:00 p.m. A Mass celebrating his life will be held on Tuesday October 27th at 11:00 at Valley Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to either St. Francis High School or the Wounded Warrior Project.
View the online memorial for William P. Murphy
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Memories and Condolences
for William Murphy
Sponsored by santacruzsentinel.com.
3 Entries
Kim Vestal Boweres
October 25, 2015
The world has lost a most wonderful man.I have so many treasured childhood memories growing up around the corner from the Murphy's house on Carmel Street. He and Betty set one the best examples to me of what good parents, partners, and community members should be. Another part of my childhood is gone with his passing. You will be remembered fondly by many people. Rest in Peace.
Anne Grillot
October 24, 2015
I loved his spirit smile. I admired that he remembered and cherished relatives from our mutual past. I benefited greatly in our many talks about relatives we both knew; Rose,Maude,Madeline,
James Pirie. I will miss this link to the past and I miss you dear cousin
and friend.
Fr. Marc Rougeau
October 24, 2015
I will fondly remember Bill sitting in the last pew at the Valley Church praying with great devotion to his loving God. Bill thank you for your dedication and example as a faithful believer. May you rest in peace, Bill.
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