Michael Murphy

Michael Murphy

Michael Murphy Obituary

Visit the Tri-County Funeral Home - Highland website to view the full obituary.

Michael "Mike" Rives Murphy, 76, of Highland, Arkansas went to meet his Lord and Savior on Thursday, October 30, 2025. He was born October 24, 1949 in Brush, Colorado to Donald D. and Joye Rives Murphy, both who preceded him in death as did a sister, Pam McKenzie.

Mike worked as an aerospace engineer and was proud to be a pilot, scuba diving instructor, sports enthusiast (especially golf and tennis), and graduate of Texas A&M. He had a doctorate in theology. was an ordained minister, and served as a deacon at Abundant Life Church in Cherokee Village, Arkansas.

Survivors include his wife, Glorya; a daughter, Laurie Sims; a son, Austin T. Pittman; a niece, Carrie McKenzie; seven grandchildren: Jordan (Andrew), Kendall (Jordan), Chandler (Brady), Austin Michael (Chantal), Colton (Bailey), Jackson, and Leighton; six great-grandchildren; and many good friends.

A public memorial service is scheduled for Monday, November 10 at 3:00 p.m. in the Abundant Life Church, Highway 62/412, with Pastor Joey Barnes officiating.

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

Tri-County Funeral Home - Highland

1540 Highway 62-412, Hardy, AR 72542

Make a Donation
in Michael Murphy's name

How to support Michael's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services., and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Michael Murphy's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more