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3704 Chapman Highway

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Michael Murphy Obituary

MURPHY, MICHAEL WHEELER - age 51 of South Knoxville, passed away suddenly on Sunday, January 31, 2010. Mike graduated in 1977 from South Young High School. After graduation, he worked for White Stores and later for Mid Mountain Food Warehouse. For the last 15 years, Mike has worked for Clayton Homes in Halls. He was a member of Immanuel Baptist Church. Mike enjoyed UT sports, Nascar, completing his "honey do" lists and most of all spending time with his family including all of his dachshunds. Preceded in death by mother, Fay; sister, Beth and mother and father-in-law, Bob and Barbara Barton. Survivors include wife of 25 years, Beth "Little Bit" Murphy; children, Courtney, Brandon and Adrienne Murphy; father, Carl Murphy; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Kim and Bobby Mullins; brother-in-law, Bobby "Bro" Barton and several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 5:00-8:00 PM Wednesday in the chapel of Berry Funeral Home, Chapman Highway, with a service celebrating Mike's life to follow at 8:00 PM, Dr. George Hollander and Rev. John Gallagher officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to the Murphy's Children College Fund, in care of Berry Funeral Home, 3704 Chapman Highway, Knoxville, Tennessee 37920. Following the services, Mike will be cremated. A guestbook and additional information are available at www.berryfuneralhome.com. You are invited to share your thoughts and memories of Mike at his memorial website at www.MeM.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Knoxville News Sentinel from Feb. 2 to Feb. 3, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Murphy

Not sure what to say?





Anita Shoffner

February 8, 2010

I was Beth Murphy Galyon and Mike's friend,and I just heard the news about Mike. I just wanted to express my sympathy to all of you. You are in our family's prayers.

Retha Alexander

February 7, 2010

Beth,
I am so sorry for your loss. I know you have heard this a million times but you and the kids will be in my prayers. You are a strong woman and God does not give us more than we can handle. Keep the faith and He will pull you through.

Henry (Scotty) & Melissa Scott

February 5, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this very difficult time. Mike was taken from us at a very young age. He will be miss.

Harriet Crisp Jordan

February 5, 2010

Dear Little Bit,

When my mother told me of Mike's death I was truly stunned. Words seem so inadequate to express the sorrow in my heart for the loss of such a fine man. I will always remember Mike as a sweet and gentle man, and I cherish memories of our time at Immanuel. Know that you, your children, and Carl are in my thoughts and prayers now and in the days to come.

God bless you all,
Harriet

Kelly League

February 4, 2010

Beth and Family, We were in town this past week because my my fahter-in-law passed away suddenly and unexpectedly. My children were at the game on Sunday. I heard the news through a doctor we work with. I was stunned and so very, very sorry. I know there are no words that I can say right now, except that we will continue to pray for you and your family. I know through conversations we had had at work that he was truley a family man. I am glad that you will have so may wonderful memories to cherish. Will continue to be thinking of you Beth.

With Love,
Kelly League and Family

jane cupp

February 4, 2010

Dear Beth and family,
I just wanted to let you know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Mike was a real pleasure to have as a friend and patient. We talked
about the "dog children" the last time he came for his blood work. I
know you all will miss him,as I will, but just think of the great memories you have to keep him forever in your heart.
Jane Cupp,
St.Marys
O.P.Lab.

February 4, 2010

Dear Murphy family, i did not know your family but my son was there to help with Mr Murphy. i send my condolences to your family. I know my son has had alot of thoughts about your family.It has really bothered him that he passed. God will be there to help you get thru this. God Bless
Debbie Pridemore Kingsport Tn
mother of Sean Light.

February 4, 2010

Little Bit & Carl,

I have so many fun memories of Mike as I was growing up at Immanuel. I know for Greg (Carney) and myself, Mike was always that big brother figure for us and had the coolest cutlass (with t -tops) in town. He drove us around in that car more than we deserved.

It's amazing how many stories came flooding back when I heard Mike has passed away. I was sharing with Greg yesterday "who else would let you throw bottle rockets standing up in the seat out the top of that Cutlass... only to see one fly back into the front windshield and explode! Mike probably had a right to be mad but he wasn't. He laughed as hard as we did!

Greg and I were also talking about the time that Mike bought that blue 1942 Army jeep and the adventure of trying to get it back to his house with no brakes... Mike in his car leading the way... Greg driving the jeep... and me following in Greg's pinto station wagon (w/ wood grain panels) trying to provide a clear shot for Greg not to have to use the brakes!

Mike seem to always know how to let you be yourself, to enjoy you and to have fun. He was a gentle spirit and I know in significant ways was part of my character development. Mike, probably unknowingly, showed me what it looked like to be a true friend, how encourage others, but most of all how to be "present" with you.

We all have been influenced by others in one way or another. I find myself extremely thankful to have been influenced by Mike. He was a true gift!

Love you Guys! - Erik

Erik Chandler

February 4, 2010

Little Bit & Carl,

I have so many fun memories of Mike as I was growing up at Immanuel. I know for Greg (Carney) and myself, Mike was always that big brother figure for us and had the coolest cutlass (with t -tops) in town. He drove us around in that car more than we deserved.

It's amazing how many stories came flooding back when I heard Mike has passed away. I was sharing with Greg yesterday "who else would let you throw bottle rockets standing up in the seat out the top of that Cutlass... only to see one fly back into the front windshield and explode! Mike probably had a right to be mad but he wasn't. He laughed as hard as we did!

Greg and I were also talking about the time that Mike bought that blue 1942 Army jeep and the adventure of trying to get it back to his house with no brakes... Mike in his car leading the way... Greg driving the jeep... and me following in Greg's pinto station wagon (w/ wood grain panels) trying to provide a clear shot for Greg not to have to use the brakes!

Mike seem to always know how to let you be yourself, to enjoy you and to have fun. He was a gentle spirit and I know in significant ways was part of my character development. Mike, probably unknowingly, showed me what it looked like to be a true friend, how encourage others, but most of all how to be "present" with you.

We all have been influenced by others in one way or another. I find myself extremely thankful to have been influenced by Mike. He was a true gift!

Love you Guys! - Erik

ROBBIN KING

February 4, 2010

I'm so sorry to here of your loss. Please know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayer.

February 3, 2010

Beth - I was so shocked to hear about Mike. I remember him well with your prenatal care and deliveries. You were a wonderful couple, and full of fun. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your wonderful children. Kristy Newton

February 3, 2010

Dearest Beth, Courtney, Brandon and Adrienne ....

Our family has your family in our prayers. Words aren't enough to express the sadness I have felt since hearing about Mike. You all have been on my mind every minute.

Mike was such a sweet friend all these years -- so easy-going, and easy to talk to. I thoroughly enjoyed our conversations - no matter if it was at WalMart or at our kids' sports events, Mike would always go out of his way to say hello. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Please don't hesitate to call on me - I am here for you all, if I can help in any way.

Much Love,
Debbe & the Read Family

Karen Bales DeRosa

February 3, 2010

Little Bit and Family,
I can't find the words to express my sympathy for your loss. I can't make it tonight but I want you know I've thought about all of you everyday and you are in my thoughts and prayers. My heart aches for you. I think of you and your family often and how much all of you meant to me growing up. Your family is loved by so many people. I will keep all of you in my prayers during this most difficult time. With all my love.

Fred and Donna Thomas

February 3, 2010

Lil'Bit and children,
We are so sorry to hear about Mike. We love both of you so much! Our prayers are w/you and the kids--we can't make it to the service tonight, but we'll be there in spirit! We remember when you guys started dating while still in the youth group @ Immanuel--you two were perfect together! And Steve and Donna were perfect together too! Hope they are still your close friends--please let others minister to you right now--it will help you and those doing the ministering! Fred and I send you love, prayers, and hugs--lots and lots of hugs! We'll call you soon to check on you, OK?
We love you, and we're so sorry!
In Christ,
Fred and Donna Thomas
Lawrenceville,GA

February 3, 2010

We are so terribly sorry for the loss of Mike. Kris graduated with Courtney and tried to save Mike with chest compressions Sunday. We, along with everyone in the section, are so sorry and pray God comforts you in the days ahead. Please know we all are behind you and may God bless the Murphy family.

Kayley Smith and Kris Sims

Michelle Rains

February 2, 2010

I was also at the ballgame when Mike passed. I thought he had just fell and hurt his head. I was so saddened to realize he was in distress and needing CPR. Everyone worked so hard to save him, our section was in total shock, I saw strangers praying and crying together. It has been 2 days since and I can't quit thinking about it. I have told many people so they can pray for you as well. May you all find peace and comfort in God during this difficult time. It sounds like he has many friends and was such a nice person.

Danny Parrott

February 2, 2010

Beth,

Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family in your time of grief. May God comfort your hearts with His loving peace.

February 2, 2010

Beth and family, I am so very very sorry, Mike was my best friend at work, he always made me laugh with all the lil stories he told about his family. Keep comfort in knowing how much he loved everyone of you and all the great memories you have. Please know you all are in my thoughts and prayers. Kathy Jones...

Sharon Pace

February 2, 2010

Beth, Courtney, Brandon & Adrienne,

I have the most wonderful memories of Mike. What a sweet and kind man he was. I know he was a great husband and father to you all. I have great memories of our baseball days together. Mike was a great example to us all with his calming nature. He was such a proud father and with good reason. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

We love you,
Jack & Sharon Pace

February 2, 2010

Precious Lil Bit, children and Carl, Jr. I am so deeply sorry for your loss. My heart aches for you. Mike was a wonderful man and we were all blessed to have known him. I will be keeping you all close to my heart in prayer during this difficult time.

Much love,
Robin Rector Blizzard

February 2, 2010

My 12 year old and were at the ball game in the same section where Mr. Murphy had the accident. The whole section was saddened and shocked at what happened. Our family has prayed for yours during this difficult time. Please know that you will continue to be in our prayers! There were so many people that day at the ball game that worked to help Mr. Murphy. Please be comforted in knowing that.

In Christ's love,

Lora-Joy Adzima

Terry Caruthers

February 2, 2010

Went to high school with Mike at Young. He was always making me laugh.

Terry 'Grissom' Caruthers, YHS 1976

Chester & Linda Cooper

February 2, 2010

Beth & Family,
Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Shelley Manning

February 2, 2010

The Halls team was blessed to have known this wonderful man. Always smiling, easy going, with so much patience. Some of my best memories was talking dachshunds with Mike and comparing notes. He will be greatly missed. God bless your family. Shelley Manning, CMH Halls

Travis Edwards

February 2, 2010

Courtney and family,
My greatest sympathies to you all for your loss. I have your family in my prayers, and know your dad is in a better place. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you in this difficult time.

Brenda Carter

February 2, 2010

I do not personally know your family but we were in the same section at the ball game.You and your family are in our prayers and will continue to be in the weeks ahead.God bless you!

Jodie Light

February 2, 2010

My husband was the one who iniated CPR on Mr.Murphy at scene of the accident.We are praying for the family that God comforts you all during this time.We are terribly sorry for your loss.

February 2, 2010

Mrs.Murphy&Family,

I want to offer my sympathies in the loss of your husband. I don't know you but my nephew was one of the men who worked with your husband at the ballgame when he fell ill. He seems to be having a hard time with it; just wanted you to know he cares. And did all he could....God bless each of you.

Scott and Janie Gilbert

February 2, 2010

I do not personally know your family, I was the fellow wearing overalls at the ball game. I am so sorry for your loss. Your family has been in our prayers continually since everything happened and will continue to be in our prayers. May God comfort you and your family in only the way He can. God bless all of you.

February 2, 2010

Beth, Brandon, Courtney and Adrienne

We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Eddie, Theresa & Greg Gervin

Sean Light

February 2, 2010

Family, I was one of the many that came to assist Michael. I realized he was not breathing or had a pulse and started Chest compressions. I am very sorry for your loss and since that moment he and the family have been in my thoughts and prayers. I hate to hear he passed, but know he is in a better place waiting for you.
Sean Light

David Wheeler

February 2, 2010

Mike was a great guy and it was a honor to call him friend. No matter what kind of day he was having, he always smiled. I am so sorry for your loss. No words can express the sadness. I pray God will comfort you.

Dawn McKinney

February 2, 2010

Beth, I am so sorry to hear about Mike. My heart hurts for you and your children. I pray that God will give you peace and comfort during this difficult time. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you!

February 2, 2010

Courtney & Family,

We are all so very sorry for your loss. We're all praying for God to give you and your family strength during this time.

Love,
Ferg & Whitney

Karen Bodenheimer

February 2, 2010

Oh, little bit, I am so very sorry for your loss.
Mike was a great guy and I'm sure father
and husband. My prayers are with you and
your children at this awful, unexpected time.
God bless, Karen Bodenheimer(Bodie)

The Nelson's

February 2, 2010

You are all in our thoughts and prayers. God will comfort and guide you all. I know this is hard on you all, but we are saying a special prayer for Adrienne as her graduation approaches. We will all be here for her.

February 2, 2010

Beth and Children,
I am very sorry to hear of your loss. I will keep your family in my prayers..

Your Friend,
Colleen Etherton

Gene Ellis

February 2, 2010

Mike was a good man and will be missed very much.I worked with him for 13 yrs he allways had a smile.I will lift up your family in my prayers in your time of grief.

February 2, 2010

Little Bit - We are at a loss and can't begin to express the sadness we feel with the loss of Mike. He was such a super nice guy. I'll never forget the early days of dating Steve and hanging out with Mike. It was good! We will pray for you and the kids. Josh wanted Brandon especially to know that he is thinking about him during this difficult time.

Love,
Steve, Donna, Jill and Josh

February 2, 2010

Beth.......... I am so very sorry. I know how you feel, I know the devestation and only time will help. God be with you. Love, Judy Brewer

Angela Harmon S-Y Class of '78

February 2, 2010

I was so saddened to hear of Mike's passing. He was too young, but ours isn't to understand why, we can only have the reassurance that he will one day be reunited with his friends and family. To Beth, Courtney, Brandon and Adrienne, my prayers are with you during this time.

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