Richard F. Murphy, Jr., PhD

Born on March 1, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, to Richard, MD and Elinor West Murphy, Richard pursued an impressive academic path. He attended the University of Minnesota, where he earned his BA degree. He continued his education at Marquette University, completing his MA, and later achieved a Clinical Psychology PhD from the University of Arkansas.

Rick was known by many, thanks to his gregarious, nurturing, energetic, and compassionate nature. Known by some as Dr. Rick, he started his career in 1974 at Western Arkansas Guidance Center. He transitioned to private practice in 1980 as the co-founder and partner of Clinical Psychology of Fort Smith where he practiced for over 40 years. In 2006, he was honored as the Arkansas Psychological Association Private Practice Provider of The Year. In addition to private practice, he was a volunteer psychologist for several communities, such as veterans through Warrior Camp and natural disaster survivors. He deeply valued the work he did with patients. Upon retirement, he greatly missed connecting and partnering with others in their healing journey. In addition to clinical work, he served on several boards during his lifetime, both professional and personal, including the Arkansas Psychology Examiners Board, Advisors for Harbor View Mercy Hospital, School boards for Christ the King and Trinity Junior High, and the Christ the King Parish Council.

His work was one of his many passions, but his passions varied during his seasons of life and included triathlons, woodworking, swimming, sustainability, his dogs, and traveling. No matter the season of life, his family was his most enduring passion. During his last season of life, he channelled his energy and passion into sustainability efforts via the Citizens Climate Lobby. With his sustainability work, he loved finding the connection and common ground that allowed others to come together and improve the community.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, and sister Ronile Murphy Rubino.

Left to honor his legacy is his wife, Bonnie Murphy of the home; children Michelle Elise Murphy, PsyD, Richard F. Murphy, III, and Meghan Elizabeth Murphy, PhD; grandchildren Fiona, Evelyn, William, Wyatt, Prewitt, and Pierson; and siblings Mary Anne Murphy Coburn-Cope, Patricia Murphy Borla, Catherine Murphy Shea, and Michael Murphy.

Visitation and Rosary will be held at Edwards Funeral Home, 201 N 12th St, Fort Smith, AR 72901, on Thursday, December 4 from 5:00pm-7:30pm. Rosary will be said at 7:00pm. Funeral Mass will take place at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church on Friday, December 5 at 10:00am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made Christ the King Church Renovation Fund, 2112 S Greenwood Ave, Fort Smith, AR 72901; the Good Samaritan Clinic, 1400 S Zero St, Fort Smith, AR 72901; or Hope Campus, 301 S E St, Fort Smith, AR 72901.

Richard F. Murphy, Jr., PhD, will be remembered for his dedication to his profession and his community, leaving a lasting impact on all who knew him.