Dunnellon, FLA – Michael Mayo Murphy, 75 of Dunnellon, Florida, passed away at home May 2nd, surrounded by his family after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sheila Lacy Murphy, daughter, Ingrid Murphy Johnson, grandsons, Andrew Johnson, Benjamin Johnson, and Corban Johnson, three nephews, Anthony Murphy, Derek Teets, Timothy Murphy, and one niece, Heather Meyer.
Mike was born in Frenchburg, Ky on September 11, 1947, and raised in Morgan County Ezel, Ky. He graduated from Ezel High School and received a bachelor’s degree in business from Morehead State University. Mike later earned a master’s degree in social work from the University of Louisville.
He served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War, stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, where he was a mental health counselor for returning veterans.
Mike began his career in Kentucky, serving 16 years for the state of Kentucky’s Children’s Residential Services and Staff Training, eventually becoming Branch Manager. In 1989, he moved his family to Florida and worked for 10 years at the Tacachale Center in Gainesville, rising to the position of Superintendent. Mike ended his career as the Southwest District Administrator for the Florida Department of Children and Families.
Before Alzheimer’s, he was an avid golfer and fisherman and enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandsons.
Mike is preceded in death by his only son, Patrick Todd Murphy, his parents, Doc and Irene Oldfield Murphy, brothers Bernard and Daryl Murphy and sister, Janice Teets.
“That man is a success- who has lived well, laughed often and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task/ who leaves the world better than he found it; who has never lacked appreciation of earth’s beauty or failed to express it; who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had.” Unknown Author.
A memorial service will be held at a later date to be determined.
Expressions of sympathy can be made online at www.robertsofdunnellon.com.
Arrangements are under the care of Roberts Funeral Home, 19939 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Dunnellon, FL 34432.
