Howard J. Murphy

Howard J. Murphy, 96, of DuPont City, WV, passed away on October 3, 2015 at Hospice Hubbard House. The Lord received a faithful servant who exemplified a strong Christian man in both values and service.

Howard was born May 30, 1919 in Montrose, WV to Cora and Hickman Murphy. He married the love of his life, Alda Enlow, on January 9, 1943. They celebrated 58 ½ years together.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, Cora and Hickman Murphy, his first born son, Michael Enlow Murphy, and his beloved wife, Alda Murphy. He is survived by his daughter and son in law, Marg and Gill Heasley, son and daughter in law, David and Roberta Murphy, sister, Hazel Pritchard, four grandchildren: Michael Herald and his wife Alicia, ReBecca Herald Sizemore and her husband Chris, Megan Murphy Chartier and her husband Brad, and Marla Murphy. Left behind are six beautiful great grandchildren: Trentan Sizemore, Samuel Herald, Grant Sizemore, Brooke Herald, Christian Chartier, and Chloe Chartier.

Howard was a veteran of the United States Army and proudly served in World War II from 1942 to1946. During this time, he was stationed in Honolulu and on the islands of Saipan and Guam. He loved to talk about his time in the service and the many friends he made and kept through the years.

Howard worked 40 years for E.I. DuPont in Belle, WV, retiring in 1981. He was a charter member of DuPont City Presbyterian Church and proudly remembered helping build the church. He served first as a deacon and then as an elder. He received his greatest joy from sharing the gospel with others.

Howard was an avid gardener alongside his beloved wife, Alda. They often shared the bounty of their harvest with friends and family members. He was also a jack of all trades, working on many projects such as plumbing, wood work, and car repair. He’s left his family several pieces of woodwork he began making in high school. Howard will be most remembered by friends and family as a man who always had something positive to say when he greeted you. He had strong Christian values and was an inspiration to many.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Mercedes Chambers, who greatly assisted in Howard’s care during his last few months at home.

Friends may call at Morris Memorial United Methodist Church in Kanawha City on Tuesday evening, October 6, 2015 from 5-7p.m., followed by a Celebration of his Life at 7p.m., with the Reverend Denny Dodson officiating. Graveside burial services will be Wednesday, October 7, 2015 at Israel Church Cemetery, Montrose, WV overlooking the farm where he grew up. He will be laid to rest beside his beautiful bride, Alda, and his son, Michael Enlow Murphy.