William Sewell Murphy Sr.

Bill Murphy, age 91, passed away peacefully at his home in Memphis, TN, on June 15th, surrounded by the comfort of home and fond memories. A natural storyteller who never met a stranger, Bill was known for his quick wit, warm smile, and signature joke always at the ready.

Born on December 11, 1933, in Rosebud, South Dakota, Bill’s early life began on a Sioux reservation where his father served as the local doctor. His family moved frequently - living in Ignacio, Colorado; Bogalusa, Louisiana; and eventually settling in Greenwood, Mississippi, his mother’s hometown. Bill’s childhood was filled with athletics, music, and adventure - he was active in football, chorus, and snow skiing.

He attended Sunflower Junior College (now Mississippi Delta Community College), then transferred to Mississippi State University, where he was elected cheerleader, a role that reflected his infectious energy and team spirit. He later enrolled at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, where he joined the inaugural pledge class of Sigma Phi Epsilon and served as treasurer and chaplain.

Following college, Bill joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Macon, Georgia. He was honorably discharged and awarded both the Good Conduct Medal and the Marksmanship Medal.

After his military service, Bill settled in Memphis, where a blind date led him to his first wife, Gail. Together, they raised two sons, Will and Todd, in Germantown, Tennessee, building a joyful life centered on family, faith, and community. Bill and his family were active members of the Park Avenue Church of Christ in Memphis.

Bill began his professional career at Lipscomb and Pitts Insurance Agency before founding his own firm, the Murphy Insurance Agency. A dedicated leader in his field, he was active in the Professional Insurance Agents (PIA) of America, serving in roles including secretary, treasurer, and board member. He was recognized with numerous awards and incentive trips for his excellence in agency sales.

For 27 years, Bill ushered at the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium, and he was a member of the ROMEO Club (Retired Old Men Eating Out), faithfully gathering every Monday at the Piccadilly in Germantown, where laughter and friendship were always on the menu.

After Gail’s passing, Bill found companionship and happiness again with his second wife, Brenda Werkheiser, with whom he shared several fulfilling years until her own untimely passing.

In later years, Bill remained socially active, especially enjoying the camaraderie, dancing, and meals at the McWherter Senior Center, where he formed lasting friendships and memories.

Bill’s legacy lives on in the laughter he shared, the stories he told, and the deep love he gave to family and friends.

The visitation will be held on Friday, June 27th, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Memphis Funeral Home, 5599 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN. The funeral service will take place on Saturday, June 28th, at 10 a.m. at the same location, followed by a procession to Forest Hill Memorial Park South for burial ceremonies.