Willie Randolph Murphy

Willie R. Murphy and Mary McDonald in Galveston, Texas. He graduated

from Conroe High School where he met the love of his life, Sarah Brown

who preceded him in death. Willie excelled at math, science and sports.

He declined a congressional nomination to West Point and attended

Texas College to stay near and to assist his ailing grandparents who raised him.

In June 1949 he left college, entered the US Marine Corps and began his family

life with Sarah. To their union was born Willie R. Murphy Jr.(Sheila),

Vaughn Murphy (Dora), Jacqueline Murphy, Wayne Murphy; 10 grandchildren

are April Murphy, Nicole Murphy-Garcia (Jose), Kevin Harper, Jasmine Murphy,

Trent Murphy, Adrian Nolasco, Sonia Nolasco, Brandi Murphy, Bryce Murphy;

9 great-grandchildren Anthony Garcia, Rico Garcia, Carlos Garcia,

Heaven-Leigh Wilson, Nayana Garcia, Gavin Brataco, Zipporah Murphy,

Olivia Nretaco and Laila Nolasco. He lived by his regiment's motto,

"Ready for anything and counting on nothing". He was among the

first integrated active duty Marines at Camp LeJuene North Carolina

and Camp Pendleton California. Through out his military, professional and

personal life he was always prepared, attentive to the details, and resourceful.

He received numerous honors for his quality of work and leadership.

He was the recipient of numerous decorations and medals, including

the United Nations Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Medal,

Korean Service Medal with 5 star Presidential Unit Citation with 1 bronze star.

He was also the recipient of the Navy Achievement Medal for meritorious service.

He loved a good story and could keep his family and friends enthralled with his life

experiences for hours. He appreciated discussions with his children and grandchildren

on current events and made provocative statements to spur debate. He was a great

provider for his family and found great joy touring visiting friends and family around

his favorite California locations and taking pictures.

He was a Bible scholar and train hobbyist.