Bruce Murphy

Bruce Murphy, 86, of Champaign, formerly of Springfield, passed away at 1:20 p.m. on Wednesday, October 14, 2015 at Bickford Assisted Living in Champaign. Bruce was born on March 25, 1929 in South Fork, IL, the son of Roy and Naomi Brantley Murphy. He married Fannie E. Reinders on August 14, 1960 in Springfield; she preceded him in death in 2009. Bruce was a graduate of Ball Chatham High School. He earned his bachelor's degree from Western Illinois University and his master's degree from the University of IL. He was a longtime basketball coach and educator, finishing his career as principal in Pawnee. He enjoyed playing golf, watching the Chicago Cubs, college and professional basketball, and most of all, spending time with his grandchildren. He was also preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Tom and George Murphy. He is survived by his son, Joe Murphy (wife, Dr. Kim Collins) of Champaign; his daughter, Jane Murphy (husband, John) Richmann of West Chicago; four grandchildren, Quinn and Kennis Murphy and Stephen and Elizabeth Richmann; his sister, Barb (husband, Don) Blehm of CO; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Visitation and Funeral Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until the time of funeral ceremony at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 20, 2015 at Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield with Rev. Tom Corum officiating. Burial will follow at Horse Creek Cemetery in Pawnee. Memorial contributions may be made to Pawnee Grade School, 810 North 4th St., Pawnee, IL 62558.