William Walton Murphy

William Murphy of Saunderstown, formerly of West Sacramento, Calif., passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023, at the age of 76. Cherished husband of Sheril Ann Wiltfong for 48 years, he was born in Toronto, Ontario to the late William and Margaret (Walton) Murphy.
Having lost his loving wife in 2017, Bill is survived by his devoted daughters Dr. Melissa Monique Murphy and her husband Steven Colson of Saunderstown, RI; Alyssa Murphy McGehee and her husband Andrew of Long Valley, NJ; cherished grandchildren Riley, Cole, and Annabelle; dear siblings Ellen Martha Overstall of Nanoose Bay, B.C., Susan Murphy of Kingston, ONT, Neil Murphy of Chilliwack, B.C., Rosemary Milne of North Vancouver, B.C. Kathy Henderson of Vernon, B.C., Pamela Roberston of Kelowna, B.C., and Chris Murphy of Chilliwack, B.C.
Bill met his wife in London, and they were married in Tacoma, WA. He attended Art Center College of Design (1969-1971) and moved to Montreal, QC where they started a family. They ultimately settled in Sacramento, CA where Bill started Murphy Illustration, working in commercial art. Described as a 'rare talent and an artist through and through' by his clients, his art was featured at shows in the Sacramento area, capturing still life and those that he loved.
Above his career and livelihood, Bill made family and faith his priority. He was ever present at sporting events for children and grandchildren. Sundays were reserved for church and family. His lifelong commitment to community was demonstrated as he taught drawing to foster youth and visited nursing home residents. Bill was active with the West Sacramento Kiwanis Club and a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus and Respect Life Ministry.
After retiring, Bill and Sheril relocated to Saunderstown, RI. He became an integral part of life at St. Thomas More Catholic Church. He will always be remembered for his humility and steadfast faith. His selfless love continues to inspire those that were blessed to know him.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Mass of Christian Burial Friday, October 6, 2023, at 10am in St. Thomas More Church, 53 Rockland Street, Narragansett. Burial will follow in St. Francis Cemetery, Wakefield. VISITING HOURS Thursday from 4-7pm in the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory - SOUTH COUNTY CHAPEL, 1111 Boston Neck Road, (Rt. 1A), Narragansett. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Knights of Columbus, Pope Pius Council 5295, 53 Rockland Street, Narragansett, RI 02882.