Bill was born July 27, 1926 in Birmingham, AL. He graduated from Trussville High School. Bill then began service in the Army Air Corps during World War ll and received both a marksmanship and good conduct medal. After the war he attended his beloved Auburn University where he met his bride, Elizabeth (Betty) Browning, whom he married in 1950. He began his first career with Barbers Dairies and later moved to Kinnett Dairies in Columbus, GA. Quickly concluding his first retirement did not fit his active lifestyle, Bill went on to enjoy his second career with Striffler Hamby Mortuary, with his final retirement at age 90.
Bill loved his wife, Betty, with all of his heart. They are well known for the many ways they served and extended hospitality together in their home, church and community. He was almost always by her side, waiting for her to take a breath so he could get a chance to talk. Bill was a U.S. Army Air Corps Veteran having served in World War II.
Bill is survived by his wife, Betty; children, Billie Sumrell-Fulton (Peter), Patricia Beeber (Allan), Monte Murphy, and Chris Murphy (Jennifer), beloved as “Dandaddy” to 11 grandchildren, as well as great grandchildren, cousins, nephews and nieces.
A visitation and viewing for family and friends will be held Saturday morning, August 19 from 10:00 -11:30 AM at Striffler Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Rd. Columbus GA 31907.
A celebration of Bill's life and Military Honors will be held Saturday, August 19, 2023 at 2:00 PM at Wynnbrook Baptist Church, 500 River Knoll Way, Columbus, GA 31904, with Dr. Craig Bowers and Dr. Kevin Calhoun officiating.
In lieu of flowers, you may honor his memory by a donation to your favorite charity.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.shcolumbus.com for the Murphy family.
