Dennis Patrick “Murph” Murphy, 56, of Festus died June 12, 2021, at Mercy Hospital South in St. Louis County. Mr. Murphy was a diesel mechanic for Broadway Ford and for the Sunrise R-9 School District, and was a 25-year member of Teamster Union Local 618. He was an animated storyteller and could fix, ride or drive anything with an engine. He especially loved spending time with his family and friends and helping others; his last act was to help save two lives through the gift of his kidneys. Born Nov. 23, 1964, in Festus, he was the son of the late Marguerite Hazel (Luhn) and James “Wilson” Murphy.
He is survived by his wife: Amanda (White) Murphy; two daughters: Sarah (Andrew) Hemenway of Roeland Park, Kan., and Lauren Murphy of Festus; four sisters: Sharon (the late Randall) Durrence of Winter Haven, Fla., Marjorie Avina of Crystal City, Judith (the late Paul) Straussberg of Festus and Carolyn Murphy of Festus; two brothers: James A. Murphy of Festus and Joseph W. (Kay) Murphy of De Soto; and numerous other family and friends.
He was preceded in death by a brother: Thomas Jason Murphy.
Visitation will be from noon until a funeral service at 3 p.m. Saturday, June 19, at Vinyard Funeral Home, 616 W. Main, in Festus, officiated by Pastor Terry Crank. A celebration of life will follow immediately at the De Soto VFW. Memorials may be made to Ability KC, 3011 Baltimore Ave., Kansas City, 64108. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.