William Armstrong Murfey

Few people are fortunate enough to be known and respected by as many souls as William Armstrong Murfey. Bill was born October 29, 1921 in Cleveland, Ohio the son of Alfred Armstrong and Matilda Patterson Murfey. He served his country in the United States Marine Corps during World War II, participating in action against the enemy at numerous battles, including Tinian, Saipan and Iwo Jima. He enjoyed over 33 years of recognized and dedicated service to the Timken Company. Bill was involved in many clubs and organizations alongside people he loved and respected. He dedicated himself, heart and soul, to his community. He was an intensely active member of the Elks Lodge and the Leawood Lions Club, flipping pancakes on Pancake Day and ringing bells every holiday season for the Salvation Army. His favorite cause was collecting used eye glasses to repurpose for those less fortunate. Year after year Bill regularly collected no less than one thousand pairs of glasses each month. Many people knew of Bill's deeds or were profoundly affected by his far-reaching arm of goodwill. His endearing stubbornness and unfaltering independence made him a memorable character of wit, joviality, and aforementioned generosity. Bill survived Betty Mayes Murfey, his lovely wife of 40 years. He died quietly the evening of July 3, 2012, at the fulfilling age of 90. He is survived to be recalled fondly by a vast network of close friends and family including his daughter and son-in law Betsy and Brad Barrett, son Pat Murfey, and three grandchildren, Alyssa, Alex, and Holly Murfey who lovingly knew him as “Pop” or “Grandpa Bill”. In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial contributions to The Leawood Lions Club c/o Club Treasurer, 25770 West 127 Street, Olateh, KS 66061or the Salvation Army P.O. Box 412577, Kansas City, MO 64141. A celebration of his life will be held at Ward Parkway Presbyterian Church at 75th and Ward Parkway, Kansas City, Missouri, on Tuesday, July 10, 2012 at 1:00 p.m.