Jim Murphy

Jim Murphy, 88, of Atlantic, Iowa, died Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at Heritage House in Atlantic.

James Leroy was born on March 19, 1935, in Atlantic, Iowa, the son of Cecil Daniel and Kathryn Caroline (Kurtenbach) Murphy.  He grew up on the family farm north of Wiota, Iowa, and graduated from Wiota High School in 1953.  Jim served his country in the United States Army from 1954 – 1956. 

Jim was united in marriage to Lila Mae High on April 7, 1956, in Griswold, Iowa.  The couple farmed south of Exira for 15 years, moving to rural Anita in 1973.  After moving to Anita, he worked as a salesman for Challenge Feeds and later for Noland Feeds in Adair.  In 1991, they moved to Atlantic and after Lila’s death in 1993, he lived on Table Rock Lake for eight years.  Jim later returned to Griswold, Iowa, until due to his declining health, he moved to Heritage House. 

The love of horses he had during his childhood carried through his whole life.  Jim raised and bred Arabian horses, and would show off what he thought was the best of the best at shows and parades.  He also enjoyed buying and selling cars.

Jim is survived by his sons, Dennis (Mary) Murphy of Atlantic and Duane (Vicki) Murphy of Anita; daughter, Lorri (David) Johnston of Waukee; grandchildren, Brandon (Cara) Murphy of Anita, Brady (Isabel Lund) Murphy of Anita, and Lexi Johnston of Waukee; great-grandsons, Bentley and Tucker Murphy; brother, Larry (Deb) Murphy of Council Bluffs; sisters-in-law, Kay Murphy of Stuart and Judy Murphy of Wiota; and many extended family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Cecil and Kathryn Murphy and brothers, Bob and Bill Murphy.

A Celebration of Life Visitation and Luncheon will be held from 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Thursday, October 12^th at the Anita Community Center.  Following the gathering we will process to the Evergreen Cemetery for a memorial graveside service, with military honors by the Anita American Legion Post #210 and the Iowa Army National Guard.  The service at the cemetery will begin at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the family for designation at a later date. 

Roland Funeral Service is caring for Jim's family and his arrangements.  Condolences may be left at www.rolandfuneralservice.com.