Murphy Sr., Donald L. 1932-2025 Norman, Okla.

NORMAN, Okla. – Donald Lee Murphy Sr., 93, formerly of Troy, Kansas, passed away Monday, Aug. 4, 2025. He spent the sunset of his life at his daughter’s home in Norman, Oklahoma, where he was cared for by his daughter, Terry, his son-in-law, Bill, and his granddaughter, Brittany. Donald was born on Feb. 24, 1932, in Troy, to Elmer and Vida (Sutton) Murphy.

Beginning in 1953, he served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany. Following his service, he returned to working as a section lineman for the Chicago Rock Island Railroad and Northwestern Railroad for 42 years.

Donald married Mary Agnes Smith on March 14, 1959, in Savannah, Missouri. She preceded him in death on July 24, 2012. He was also preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Gloria “Polly” Moppin and Darrel “Buck” Murphy Sr.; cousin, Jody Sutton (whom his parents raised and Donald considered his brother); and son-in-law, Mike McConnell.

Survivors include his daughters, Mary Ann McConnell and Terry Murphy (and spouse); sons, Donald Lee Murphy Jr. (and spouse) and William Marvin Murphy; 20 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren with one on the way; two great-great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was greatly loved, and his light is deeply missed.

Funeral Service: 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 17, 2025, at the Harman-Rohde Funeral Home, in Troy. Visitation: 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16, 2025, at the funeral home. Friends may call after noon Saturday. Burial: Fanning Cemetery, Fanning, Kansas. Memorials: Doniphan County Pet Rescue.

www.harmanrohde.com As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.