Walter Ciliwell Murphey (1820-1901)

MURPHEY, CHITTY

Posted By: Dorian Myhre (email)
Date: 9/18/2011 at 16:19:23

From Story County Watchman March 15, 1901

OBITUARY.

Another pioneer citizen numbered with the departed. Mr. Walter C. Murphey passed away at 9 p. m. Friday, March 8th, at the ripe old age of 80 years, 3 months and 22 days. Born in Kentucky November 14, 1820, he moved to Indiana at an early age and lived in Johnson and Hamilton counties until 1854, when he moved to Iowa. During the summer of '54 he entered the quarter-section of land upon which he lived for 45 years, and where he died. Mr. Murphey was thrice married. Only one member of his family survives him, viz. Belle, wife of James Chitty, who lived on the old home place and with whom Father Murphey had made his home for many years. Twelve grandchildren survive him. He was a devoted consistent member of the Lutheran church, in whose councils his judgment was always prized. In his dealings he was just and honorable. The effect of his life is seen in the community in which he lived for so many years. Funeral services were held in the family home last Sunday, March 10th, conducted by Rev. T. B. Hersch, his pastor and Rev. A. B. Shrader, of Nevada, a former pastor. On account of the very stormy day only a few of the many friends could attend the funeral, therefore a memorial service will be held next Sunday at 3 p. m. in the Johnson Grove Lutheran church. One by one the old landmarks are being removed. Mr. Murphey was one of the well known and highly esteemed of those who have helped to make Story county a good place to live in.