Stuart Murphy

Stuart Murphy, age 67, passed away on February 2nd in Leesburg, Florida. Born in Orlando, Florida, and raised in Apopka, Stuart grew into a man defined by grit, loyalty, and an unmatched work ethic.

Stuart worked his entire life and was, to those who knew him, the hardest-working man in the world. He spent the first half of his career as a commercial fisherman, a demanding job he truly loved. Later, he worked as a heavy equipment operator in agriculture, never slowing down and never shying away from hard work. Providing for his family was one of his greatest sources of pride.

Outside of work, Stuart loved fishing, fixing anything he could get his hands on, and telling his old, wild stories-stories that only got better with time. He was proudly stubborn and set in his ways, always doing things his way, a trait that became part of who he was and is now remembered with love and smiles.

Stuart loved his wife Cynthia dearly. They met when they were just kids and grew up together. Together they raised four beautiful children and were blessed with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. To so many, they were not just grandma and grandpa by name, but to anyone in need of love, guidance, or a place to belong. They were truly a team. Walking hand in hand through every trial and triumph. Their marriage was a living example of devotion, showing all of us what 'til death do us part' truly means.

One of the most meaningful relationships of Stuart's life was his lifelong bond with Danny Coon. They were practically inseparable, standing side by side through every season of life-from their wild younger days as "Stump Jumper" and "Plow Boy," to later being transformed into God-fearing men. Their friendship was a true testament to loyalty, growth, and faith.

He is survived by his devoted spouse, Cynthia Murphy; his children, Tosha Coon, Stuart Murphy III, Amanda Murphy, and Keith Murphy; and his beloved grandchildren, Jason Sanders, Miranda Coon, Preston Murphy, Jayla Woods, Misti Burkhalter, Madison Murphy, Timothy Jones II, Vicky Woods, Victoria Burkhalter, Kelli Lavery, Jamie Hicks, Ethan Murphy, Caleb Burkhalter, Christopher Locke, and Lance Murphy. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Maleigh Bailey, Clayton Deloach, Gavin Long, Dominik Alfonso, Timothy Jones III, and Tanner Sheppard. Along with his sister Rosalee Morley.

Stuart will always be remembered for his strength, faith in God and for the life he built through hard work and love. We couldn't have asked for a better husband, parent, grandparent, or brother. He will be missed every day, but we take comfort in knowing he is now at peace, and we should find peace in that as well.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

- 2 Timothy 4:7