Donald "Don" Vernon Murphey

Born on February 10th, 1946, in St. Louis, Missouri, Don carried the resilience, pride, and spirit of his hometown with him throughout his life. A gifted student and passionate learner, he graduated Magna Cum Laude from Vanderbilt University with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. Like so many of his generation, Don answered the call to serve, joining the U.S. Air Force and rising to the rank of Captain. He then went on to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.), where he earned a Master of Science in Finance and served as an instructor.

On February 14th, 1976—Valentine’s Day—Don married the love of his life, Garnet Lynn Henderson. Together, they built a life grounded in faith and family. He was a proud and dedicated father to Dotty, Christopher, and Trish, and his greatest joys came from time spent with his family.

Don had a long and successful career as a financial advisor at Equitable. He dedicated 48 years of his life to helping people achieve their financial goals and felt a deep responsibility to serve his clients, choosing to work right up until the end of his life.

A lifelong trumpet player, Don's love for music was matched only by his passion for golf, his intricate model railroads, and his unwavering loyalty to the St. Louis Cardinals. His deepest joy, though, was his grandchildren. He treasured his time with them, especially the many visits to Disney World over the years.

Don will be remembered not only for his remarkable intellect and accomplishments but for his steadfast love for God, his family, and his country. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege to know him.

Don is survived by his wife Garnet Lynn Henderson Murphey; his children Dotty Ponder (spouse, Chris), Chris Murphey (spouse, Katie), and Trish Waldman (spouse, Brett); and his grandchildren Gracie, Ethan, Preslee, Averie, Audrey, Greyson, Zoey, Cullen, and Caroline. He will also be remembered by his brother Ray Murphey (spouse, Gina) and his sister Janice Cole; he also leaves behind nieces, nephews, and friends who will keep Don alive in their memory.

Don's visitation will be held May 27th, 2025 from 5-7 p.m. at Bluebonnet Hills Funeral Home, 5725 Colleyville Blvd. Colleyville, TX 76034. A funeral mass will be held for Don on May 28th, 2025 at 11 a.m. at Good Shepherd Catholic Church 1000 Tinker Road Colleyville, TX 76034. Reception to follow. Don will be laid to rest at Bluebonnet Hills Memorial Park.