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Wiley Murphy Obituary
Wiley was born on November 28, 1937, in Peoria, AZ and spent his childhood in Eloy, AZ. He graduated from the New Mexico Military Institute and the University of Arizona with a master's degree in Counseling Education. Wiley had two full careers as an educator and later as a cotton farmer.
Wiley loved music, traveling playing golf and cheering on his AZ Wildcats. He was a great friend to all and the life of the party.
Wiley is survived by his wife Kay, the love of his life for 64 years. Also, his sisters, Norma Hughes and Louise Johnson, children Kelly (Dan), Wendy (Robert), Mark (Anna) and 7 grandchildren. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.
A memorial service will be held at St. Mark's United Methodist, 1431 W. Magee Rd. on Friday March 7th at 3pm and a celebratory toast will follow (location announced at the service) . In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Community FoodBank of Southern Arizona or a charity of your choice.
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Sandi Gleason
March 12, 2025
Just heard about Wiley's passing today when speaking with my dad. So many happy memories of him on the beach during our summer Mission Bay vacations - volleyball, over-the-line and knock poker - such a fun, kind-hearted man. Thinking of the entire Murphy family and sending my condolences.
Al Slawson
March 5, 2025
Wiley was one of my two best friends in TUSD and Tucson since 1962. He introduced me to Puerto Penasco (where we now have a small vacation home), our family to Green Corn Tamales and initiated 6 to 8 TUSD families into the Green Corn Tamales Club,picking the corn,shucking the ears,making the mixture, grinding at La Suprema and assembling the final product with proper libation. We also enjoyed spending summer vacations on Mission Beach with he and his family. Wiley and I attended many professional conventions together. He was always there to offer a helping hand to our family. We have many fond memories of Wiley. We wish you God Speed and Rest in Peace.
Teri and Rex
February 23, 2025
Rex and I were saddened by this news. We had some fun times together with Wiley and his family.
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Bill Ismay
February 22, 2025
What great memories I have about Wiley and the Murphy family, Mission Beach, Rocky Point, Sabino Canyon, Green Tamale Parties, ... . I remember Wiley as always being kind, gentle, and fun. Our thoughts are with you.
Bill Ismay
Enza Sansone
February 19, 2025
So sorry on the loss of Wiley, a real gentleman. Sending hugs and love to all the family.
Arizona Cotton Growers Association
February 6, 2025
The Arizona Cotton Growers Association flourished during Wiley Murphy's presidency from 1999 to 2000. His leadership made a significant impact, establishing a benchmark for future leaders of the association and enhancing the prosperity of Arizona's cotton-growing community.
Michelina Primrose
February 6, 2025
A wonderful man and such a big loss for all.
Sending you all our love Richard and Michelina x
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