William Murphy Obituary

Dr. William Ray Murphy
Johnston - Dr. William R. Murphy of Still Hopes Retirement Home, West Columbia, SC, husband of Frances (Pat) Murphy, died Monday January 25, 2021. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Nannie Belle Davis and Jett Ezekiel Murphy as well as his brothers Dr. Randolph Murphy and Ralph Murphy.
Bill was born May 20, 1925 in El Dorado, Arkansas. After graduating high school in El Dorado, Bill attended the Hutchin's School, the College of the University of Chicago from 1941-1943, earning a bachelor's degree in philosophy. He then served as a medic in the United States Army in the Philippines, Okinawa, and Korea.
Bill obtained his premedical degree in 1945 from the University of Chicago, his Bachelor of Science and medical degree in 1951 from the University of Arkansas Medical School in Little Rock, Arkansas. He completed his residency in pathology at the Washington University Medical School in St. Louis, Missouri. He was then employed by the University Hospital in Augusta, Georgia, as a pathologist for his 25-year career. After his retirement, he continued his lifelong interest and activities in forestry. Bill also enjoyed playing golf and tennis and was a talented painter and pianist. He often entertained the other residents at Still Hopes with his piano skills. Bill loved reading and had a wealth of knowledge about many topics, but especially trees and plants. His walker basket often contained a collection of acorns to study. Bill was a kind and brilliant man who always carried himself with dignity.
In addition to his wife, Pat, Bill is survived by his children from his marriage to Marjorie Gilliam Garret: Julia Rummans (Fred) Hilton Head Island, SC, John Robin Murphy (Beth) Brentwood, TN, Andrew Gilliam Murphy (Debra) Aiken, SC, and William Jett Murphy (Libby) Fleetwood, NC. He is also survived by eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.
A private service will be held in Mount of Olive's Cemetery, Johnston, SC, at a later date.
Mercantile Funeral Home Johnston Chapel is in charge of arrangements.
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www.edgefieldmercantilefh.com.