Michael Jay Murphy

“Murphy” (as he was known to many) was very talented and even some would say brilliant.  He built a ham radio from scraps at a very young age, and maintained his Amateur Radio License through out his life.  He built many things from “scraps” one being a computer mainly from dumpster diving and a few purchased items.  He could fix anything.  His brother Jim said he could fix his vehicle if it broke down on the side of the road with a paper clip and a wad of chewing gum.  He was always there to do honey do’s for Terri and she too was amazed how he could repair anything.

He was born on May 22 1945 to Perry and Angie Murphy.  He loved his parents very much.  His Dad passed away when he was 16 and that was a very difficult time for him. He and his Mom (Ma) were very close.  Every Christmas she went out and bought him his special gift.  It was always funny and unique just like him.  He had four older brother’s who alternately loved and tortured him.  As adults they were very close and even if it had been a while, they would pick up right where they left off teasing and harassing each other.  His nieces and nephews remember how funny he was and how we would be so excited if he would pay attention to us or better yet play a game with us when we were children.  It breaks our hearts to say he is the last of the “Murphy boys”. 

He retired as a Journeyman Electrician from Kennecott Copper in 2001 and also continued to maintain his Journeyman Electrician License afterward. 

Despite his rough exterior Murphy enjoyed old sappy romance movies and  jazz music (especially Frank Sinatra). He and Terri enjoyed road trips and getting lost on a side trip and finding their way back (she said he saved her life more than once). He prided himself on knowing and visiting every neighborhood bar in Utah.  He loved making his own adventures and simply put, he was a funny, kind and honest fella. 

He loved Terri and she him.  It was so very touching to see the love and care she gave him in his last days and always.  Terri we are forever grateful.  You are one in a MILLION.

He leaves behind his Girlfriend, Terri Liddiard; and nieces and nephews Linda, Tammie, Deanna, John, Perry and Mel. Preceded in death by his parents Perry and Angie; brothers Bob, Jim, Don and Richard; and a niece Jamie Murphy. 

Michael is also survived by Jim’s wife Marlene and Richard’s wife Kay and by many great nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, February 21 from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City. Graveside service will be held on Saturday, February 22 at 12:00 Noon at Elysian Burial Gardens, 1075 College Street, Salt Lake City. 

He will be missed terribly and remembered always.