Benjamin Clendening Murph

Benjamin Clendening Murph passed away peacefully on December 12, 2022 surrounded by family.

Ben was born 8/21/1926 in San Antonio, Texas. An adventurous boy, his dream was always to fly. A favorite family anecdote tells of him being separated from his mother on a shopping trip at the age of 5. The city newspaper article recording the story tells of him “trudging the 6 miles back home alone, occasionally stopping to viewpoints of interest but always heading in the right direction.” Ben attended Shriner Military Institute and The Citadel Military College. He then fulfilled his dream of becoming an aviator, and joined the United States Air Force. He served in WWII, Korea and Vietnam. While in Vietnam, he completed his 100th combat mission in May 1967. During this time, he served as the commanding officer of both the 357th and 428th fighter squadrons. Ben was the recipient of multiple citations, including The Distinguished Flying Cross, The Silver Star, and The Legion of Merit Award. He retired from the military in 1972, achieving the rank of full colonel.

Ben was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 72 years, Laura in 2021. He is survived by their 4 children, 7 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

Outdoor enthusiasts their entire lives, Ben and Laura enjoyed hunting, fishing, backpacking, skiing, hiking, visiting Jarbidge, and most of all, their beloved sailboats. They were long-time members of Reno Christian Fellowship, and were unashamed in their love of God and their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Ben and Laura were laid to rest together at Arlington National Cemetery on October 30, 2024, with full military honors. They are missed.