Mr. Francis Perry Murphy

Francis Perry Murphy (84) passed peacefully on March 13, 2010 at his home in Pearland, Texas. He was born in Harlingen, Texas on September 12, 1925 to Oscar Perry Murphy and Ruby (Slater) Murphy. He served in the Navy during WW II. Francis was an active member of First Baptist Friendswood and was also an active Gideon. His interest in politics, freedom to work and education lead him to support such organizations as The Leadership Institute, The National Right to Work Foundation, The Pacific Legal Foundation and The Heritage Foundation.

Francis fulfilled his lifelong goal of establishing successful tomato businesses in Texas and California. He started, along with his father and brother, O.P.Murphy Produce Co., Inc. over 60 years ago and it is still a major factor in growing and shipping tomatoes to Texas and the nation. He also enjoyed fishing, hunting and playing golf.

Preceded in death by daughter Amy (Murphy) Smalley, grandson Jesse Murphy, and great grandson David George, he is survived by his wife of 41 years Anne (Williford) Murphy, son Joe Murphy and wife Brenda of San Antonio, TX, son Mike Murphy and wife Janice of Pearland,TX , daughter Cathy Castorani and husband Sam of Keller,TX, and daughter Lisa Lancto and husband Bryon of Cleveland, TN. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 6-8 pm, Tuesday, March 16, 2010 at Forest Park East. A service celebrating his life will be held on Wednesday, March 17, 2010 at 11 am at First Baptist Friendswood, 111 E Heritage Dr. Friendswood, TX 77546 (281-482-7573). Graveside services will follow at Forest Park East Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to The Gideons International, PO Box 140800 Nashville, TN 37214. For more information visit www.ForestParkEast-FHC.com.

Arrangements under the direction of Forest Park East Funeral Home, Webster, TX.