William R. Murphy

A memorial service, to celebrate the life of William R. Murphy, 55 of Columbus, will be held on Friday, January 6, 2012 at 11:00 AM at Christian Life Center, 665 Linnville Road, Heath, with Pastor James Kirk officiating.

William was born in Richmond, California on July 2, 1957 to the late Richard Howard and Gertrude Christine (Whitaker) Murphy. He passed away at the Kobacker House on January 2, 2012 while surrounded by his family.

He graduated from Clearfield High School in Utah, Class of 1974. William proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He was a police officer with Columbus State Community College for over 25 years. He was a member of the Christian Life Center in Heath, where he was the sound technician. He enjoyed riding trains, going to train shows with his grandchildren, bowling and watching old and science fiction movies. He was known to have a great sense of humor and he knew no stranger. Most important in his life was his God and his loving family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

Survivors include his wife of 33 years, Beverly A. (Wilson) Murphy, whom he married on September 9, 1978; mother-in-law, Betty J. Wilson; four sons, William W. (Amber S.) Murphy, Frank L. Pickrel II, Michael L. Pickrel and Jerimy D. (Roberta A.) Pickrel; 11 grandchildren, Christopher, Ian, Daniel, Cameron, Ashlyn, Kelsey, Dustin, Lillian, Wilson, Jackson and Adaline; two great grandchildren, Maria and Lyric; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by one sister, JoAnn Hedberg.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of William to the Christian Life Center in Heath.

Arrangements are entrusted to Criss-Schoedinger Funeral Home, 179 Granville Street, Newark.