James E. Murphy

James Edward “Jim” Murphy passed, with family at his side, August 3, 2023 at CHI Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney. Jim was born January 5, 1943, in Spalding, Nebraska, to James Jerome “Jerry” and Helen Frances (Connelly) Murphy. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, and attended Spalding Academy first through twelfth grade. After graduating in 1961, Jim began work with auto mechanics and small engines. In 1964, he enlisted in the United States Army and served at Fort Leonard Wood, Fort Hood, and in Germany. Upon returning to the United States, Jim settled in Omaha where he met his bride, Betty Crowder. They were united in marriage in 1977. The couple remained in Omaha for more than three decades where they made their home; lived a shared wonder, joy, and gratitude for creation; spent treasured time with family and friends; and embarked on great adventures, trips and pilgrimages. In 2013, Jim and Betty moved to Grand Island. There, in 2015, Jim had the honor of taking flight in a Boeing Stearman through the Ageless Aviation Dreams Foundation. In 2019, Jim moved to Kearney where he continued to garden; handcraft ribbon-winning Buffalo County Fair entries; share his numerous collections; make new friends; and correspond with longtime friends and family. Jim was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Betty Murphy; his parents, Jerry and Helen Murphy; his brother, Jack Murphy; and his brother-in-law, Pat Hood. Jim is lovingly remembered, greatly missed, and survived by his brother and sister-in-law Dan and Ellen Murphy of Albuquerque; his sister Mary Pat Hood of Omaha; his sister-in-law Marilyn Murphy of Spalding; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends. The family would like to thank the people of the Central Nebraska Veterans’ Home and CHI Good Samaritan Hospital for their extraordinarily gracious and compassionate care of Jim. Mass of Christian Burial: Friday, August 11, 2023, 10:30 a.m.; Central Nebraska Veterans’ Home Chapel, Kearney, Nebraska; Father Joseph Hannappel officiating. Interment: Tuesday, August 15, 2023, 11:00 a.m.; Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Omaha, Nebraska; Deacon Rick Melrose officiating.

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James E. Murphy

January 5, 1943 - August 3, 2023