Robert "Bob" Emmett Murphy

On September 14, 2013 the Heaven’s rejoiced to welcome Bob Murphy, 85, to God’s eternal celebration. He passed away peacefully at Plaza Community Center where he was recuperating following a recent hospitalization. With a deep passion and appreciation for life he lived every day to the fullest. His final days were spent surrounded by family and friends. Bob was born in St. Louis, MO to Laura and Daniel Murphy. After graduating from high school he enlisted in the army, where he served in the reconstruction of Japan. He returned from the service and later met his future wife, Martha Hounsom, in St. Louis. They were married for 55 years. He enjoyed traveling to many states for his work in the construction business both before and after they were married. In 1962, Bob and Martha, with their young daughter, decided to try a two year stint in Trinidad while Bob worked on an international construction project. That started a long career overseas where he used his talents as both a construction supervisor and camp manager. He met the challenges of working in the developing world with relish. Over those years they took positions in: Iraq, Iran, Venezuela, Indonesia, Algeria, Australia and Borneo, as well as returning Stateside and working in Los Angeles and New Orleans. Bob and Martha retired to the Gulf Coast where they were faithful members of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Gautier. They both loved the time they spent volunteering at the St. Vincent de Paul Community Pharmacy in Biloxi; where Bob was the all-around handyman and go-to guy! Retirement allowed him to also pursue the hobbies he enjoyed: gardening, fishing and designing PVC crafts and creations. Spending time in his workshop was his favorite part of the day. He was a life-long St. Louis Cardinals fan, having grown up just down the street from the old Sportsman’s Park. Bob was a friend to many and had a long list of pen pals. Bob was preceded into Heaven by his beloved wife, Martha; as well as his parents and siblings: Loretta, Dan, Willie, Lawrence, Vince, Vernon, and Joyce. He leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Cathy, son-in-law, Steve, and grandsons Robert and Danny; as well as his sister Jeanette, and brother and sister-in-law Jim and Gwen. He was a beloved uncle, relative and friend to many. The Murphy family would like to thank the staff at Plaza Community Center for all their kindness and compassion. In lieu of flowers the family requests that memorials be sent to the St. Vincent de Paul Community Pharmacy, PO Box 1228, Biloxi, MS 39533. A special Time of Remembrance will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 18, 2013 at the Ocean Springs Chapel of Bradford O’Keefe Funeral Home. Friends may visit two hours prior. Funeral services will be held Sunday, September 22, 2013 at 2:30 p.m. at Fey Funeral Home in St. Lois, MO. Family will receive friends starting at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery on Monday, September 23, 2013 at 10:30 a.m. with Military Honors.