Kenneth “Merf” Murphy, 81, of Sherman, IL, passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at the Carriages of Rochester in Rochester, IL. He was born on May 27, 1944, in Evergreen Park, IL, the son of Thomas Kenneth and Lorraine Celeste (Murray) Murphy. He married JoAnne Atkinson on September 23, 1972, and she preceded him in death on June 14, 2022.
In addition to his wife, JoAnne, Ken was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Mary Ann Murphy.
Ken is survived by his three children, Shannon (Jamie) Lewis of Anderson, IN, Erin Murphy of Pingree Grove, IL, and Ryan Murphy of Sherman. In addition to his children, Ken is survived by three grandchildren, Connor Lewis, Haylee Hornbacker, and Addison Murphy; one sister, Eileen (Scott) Abbey of Arizona; one brother, Vince Murphy of Blue Island, IL; niece, Laura Abbey and nephew, Phillip Abbey.
He is a United States Army veteran serving during the Korean Era from 1962-1965 and was stationed in Germany. Ken went on to receive his Bachelor’s degree in 1970 from the University of Illinois.
Ken worked for the State of Illinois with the Auditor General’s Office as a CPA, retiring in 2002 after thirty years of service.
Ken was a member of the Sherman Athletic Club, he coached his children’s softball teams, enjoyed bowling and taking cruises after retirement with his wife JoAnne. Ken and JoAnne had taken over 10 cruises and have traveled to Ireland, Hawaii and several other places to name just a few.
The Murphy family would like to give there most sincere thanks and gratitude to the staff and residents of The Carriages of Rochester and to the staff at Hands of God Hospice for all the wonderful care, support, and love they have received. Everyone will always have a special place in the Murphy’s hearts.
Memorial Gathering: 3:30 – 5:30 pm, Monday, January 19, 2026, at Staab Funeral Home – Sherman.
Memorial Service: 5:30 pm, Monday, January 19, 2026, at Staab Funeral Home – Sherman. A Celebration of Ken’s Life will be held immediately following the service at The Sherman Athletic Club, 300 1st Street, Sherman, IL 62684 catered by Poe’s On the Hill.
Graveside Service: 10:00 am, Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Camp Butler National Cemetery where military honors will be conducted by the Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County and the United States Army Burial Detail.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Road, Springfield, IL 62702.
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