Leroy Francis Murphy

Aug. 17, 1910 - Dec. 21, 2012
ELKHART - Leroy Francis Murphy, affectionately known as "Uncle Shorty" to his many nephews and nieces, died peacefully on Friday, December 21, 2012, at Elkhart General Hospital. He was 102 years young. Annie, his wife of 67 years, was at his bedside along with close friends, Jessie, Mary Jane Craft, and Bill Fenimore his home caregiver for the last seven years. He was born on August 17, 1910, in Chicago, Ill., to Frank and Angeline Murphy. Leroy was one of ten children. He was the last living child of Frank and Angeline. He is survived by his loving and amazingly strong wife Annie, whom he married on May 12, 1945. Leroy has many nephews, nieces and friends who love him dearly and who benefited immensely from his humor, wisdom, and tenacity for living life to its fullest. All who knew him, especially those who knew and loved him as "Uncle Shorty," will sorely miss him. Leroy Murphy served in the U.S. Army in the European Theatre during WW II. He was employed at the Elkhart Rubber Works. He was also a passionate fan of Notre Dame football and the Chicago Cubs. Leroy loved to play golf, bowl, and play tricks on his nephews and nieces, who to this day still know you need to use the magic words "Uncle Shorty" to get out of a leg lock around your waist. He was a member of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Elkhart, where he served as an usher for many years. Leroy was also a life member of the Knights of Columbus Council #1043 in Elkhart. Family and friends may call for 1 hour prior to the 10:00 a.m. Thursday, December 27, 2012, Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church, 1405 N. Main St., Elkhart. Father Bill Sullivan will officiate. The U.S. Army Funeral Honor Guard will render military honors at the church. Burial will follow at St. Vincent Cemetery. The family prefers memorials in Leroy's name be given to the church. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Billings Funeral Home, Elkhart.