Kenneth Murphy

Kenneth “Ken” Moody Murphy passed away peacefully on March 31, 2023 at Carle Hospital. He was 96 years old.

The youngest of 3 children, Ken was born in Pontiac, IL to Kenneth and Amy (Barry) Murphy on April 27, 1926. He graduated from Pontiac High School in 1944, where he was a member of the basketball and football teams. He enlisted in the Navy shortly after graduation where he served honorably as a Corpsman until the end of WWII. Upon his return, Kenneth attended the University of Florida and Purdue studying business.  Following graduation he started a life-long career in sales with various companies in the central Illinois area.  In his later years he enjoyed donating to various charities.

Ken enjoyed spending the summers at his lake house in Hayward, WI where he enjoyed canoeing and spent his time maintaining the original log cabin from the 1800s.  He had a passion for animals’ rights and donated regularly throughout his life to various organizations to forward that cause. He was an avid Illini fan and never missed a basketball or football game either in person or on the television.  

Kenneth leaves behind his loving wife of 64 years, Elizabeth (Seeber) Murphy. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings.  In addition, his family would like to thank all the caregivers  for their loving care making sure he was comfortable in the final chapter of his life. 

The funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, April 20, 2023 at 10:00am at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Champaign. Kenneth will be laid to rest alongside family at St. Mary’s cemetery.

In his honor, the family asks that you spend time with your pets and consider donating to a local charity.

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