Murphy Joseph Istre, a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many, passed away peacefully at his residence Thursday, July 18, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. At his passing he was 90.
He was born March 14, 1934 in Indian Bayou, LA to the late Willie Istre and Nola Stutes and was raised in a family steeped in Cajun heritage. From an early age, Murphy was taught the value of hard work and helped his father, a sharecropper, by working the fields picking rice, cotton and beans. That strong work ethic never left his mind or heart, as he became a young man and began his career. He worked for many years with Green’s Hardware in Crowley, and later in the fabrication industry working with Compression Coat, till he became self-employed, managing his property.
Murphy was a devoted husband and father/grandfather who looked forward to holiday family gatherings. He loved cars and helping his friends and family when they needed a hand. Murphy’s most creative accomplishment was designing and creating the “Lil’ Gent”. He rebuilt the body of a Karman Gia with a Futuristic look. It gained popularity in local parades back in the day. He also was a talented artist, with drawing and playing music. In his early days in Crowley, Murphy played lead guitar with a local band names, Buddy Weekley and the Crowley Playboys.
He enjoyed daily walks on his property and visits with family on the front porch. One of his favorite things was hosting barbecues for family and friends. Also, he cherished his daily visits with his dear brother Joe as they talked about the good ole days. He was always offering advice and words of wisdom to anyone he encountered.
Although we will miss him dearly, we know that we will one day be reunited with him in the Kingdom of God. Until that very precious day, may his soul rest in peace. We love you.
Murphy is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Irene Istre, his children: Donald Istre (late wife Sue), Monica Chatagnier (Lynn), Regina Christian (Floyd), Wanda Treace (Tim), Randy Istre (late T-Paul Babineaux), Christina Williams (Anthony) his grandchildren, Courtland Istre, Jacob Istre, Alexander Chatagnier, Marqus Christian, Chase Christian, Xenifer Lamp, Nick Treace, Trevor Rogers, Anthony Rogers, and Adonis Broussard; his great-grandchildren, Alexia Christian, Jentci Christian, Marqus Chrisitan Jr, and Mason Istre; and his sister, Helen Pepper.
Along with his parents, he was preceded by his sister, Earline Navarre; and his brothers, Earnest Istre, Wildey Istre, Claren Istre, Horace Istre, and Julius Istre.
A gathering of family and friends will be held Tuesday, July 23 at Evangeline Funeral Home from 10:00 am until 9:00 pm, with the rosary being recited at 6:00 pm, led by the Men’s Rosary Group. Visiting hours will resume on Wednesday from 8:00 am until 1:00 pm dismissal.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Murphy on Wednesday, July 24 at 1:30 pm at St. Marcellus Catholic Church. Fr. James Nguyen will be the celebrant. Following the mass, Murphy will be laid to rest at Holy Family Mausoleum.
Serving as Pallbearers are Chase Christian, Courtland Istre, Alexander Chatagnier, Anthony Rogers, Trevor Rogers, Tim Treace, Mark Rivet and Xenifer Lamp.
The family would like to thank Mary Christian and all family members who were amazing in helping the family with the care they provided in mom and dad’s time of need. Also, all the family members stepped in without hesitation to offer prayers. We would like to also thank the nurses of Lourdes of Lafayette, staff of Hospice of Acadiana, and Evangeline Funeral Home for their professionalism and the immediate care needs they so effortlessly gave.
Family and friends are encouraged to share their memories and condolences with the family by visiting Murphy’s memorial at www.evangelinenewiberia.com
Evangeline Funeral Home of New Iberia is in charge of arrangements.
