Robert Wesley Murphy

Robert Wesley Murphy (Bob) passed away peacefully on November 30, 2023, at the home of his family in Roseville, California. Born on October 23, 1929, in Jackson, Tennessee to Mary Elizabeth Alexander and M.W. Murphy, Bob lived an extraordinary life filled with accomplishments, love, and devotion.

Bob struggled with math when he was in school. He did the best he could until he finally decided his time would be better spent helping to support his family. He left school in the 8th grade and went to work for a local restaurant and auto shop. When he was 16, he answered the call of Uncle Sam and joined the Army, ultimately ending up in the Air Force. He served his country with distinction in various capacities across different parts of the world. From World War II to assignments in Korea, Germany, England, Japan, and Fiji, Bob dedicated himself to protecting his homeland.

Among Bob's proudest accomplishments in the Air Force was his assignment with the 552nd Early Airborne Warning and Control Wing during the Cuban Missile Crisis. As an in-flight radar maintenance technician on the Lockheed RC-121, known as the "Warning Star" (his favorite plane), Bob played a vital role in safeguarding the nation. His contribution was recognized with the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. He retired as a TSGT at McClellan Air Force Base in Sacramento, California after faithfully completing numerous deployments.

After retirement from the military, and despite his early struggles with math, Bob continued a second career in electronics and engineering. He worked for companies such as Physics International, Stanford Linear Accelerator Center (SLAC), and Olin Corporation. When he finally entered full retirement age, he wasn't finished. He continued to assist his daughter and son-in-law in their family electronics manufacturing business.

Bob's commitment extended beyond his career into all aspects of his life. In his leisure time, Bob liked fixing anything and everything needing repair. He was always meticulous and focused—a man who approached every task with determination and precision. His favorite exercise for his spiritual well being was his involvement with his church. He especially enjoyed his Bible study groups. Bob found joy in delving into scripture, drawing lessons from it, and applying them to his own life. He was never afraid to express his gratefulness to God and to anyone who would give him a moment to speak.

Bob is reunited with his loved ones who left before him; his wives Irene, Mary, and Louise; his two sons Alan and Dale, mother Elizabeth, father Mat, sister Carol, and brother Charles. He is survived by his brothers Billy and Johnny, his daughter Nancy, step-daughters Barbara and Sharon, along with a wide circle of step-children, grandchildren, family and friends who will forever treasure their memories of him.

Bob will be honored at a Celebration of Life service on January 27, 2024. The service will take place at Centerpoint Community Church located at 515 Sunrise Ave in Roseville, California. Friends and family are invited to gather from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM to pay their respects and celebrate the remarkable life of this exceptional man.