Jim Lee Murphy, 91, of Mt. Carmel passed away Monday, August 4, 2025, at Oakview Heights Nursing and Rehab Center. He was born August 29, 1933, the son of Eugene “Pat” and Edna (Goodwin) Murphy in Robinson, Illinois.
Jim married Janet Bradberry and they enjoyed forty-eight years together until her passing in 2022. He worked for forty-five years as a press operator at Pacific Press and part time at the Wabash County Sheriff’s Department for twenty years…for nine different sheriffs.
Among firsts in his life, he was Mt. Carmel’s first motorcycle police officer, a founding member of the Honda Gold Wing Touring Association, and raced at the first ever Daytona AMA Pro Flat Track Race.
Jim’s greatest loves were his wife, family, motorcycles and his cats. He always had a smile and a story ready to share with others.
Those left to cherish Jim’s memory include his children, Tamera (William) Watson, Pam (Randy) Fischer of Mt. Carmel; grandchildren, Jeff (Heather) Berberich, Laura (Dave) Barnett., Mark (Jena) Berberich, Jordan (Heather) Fischer, Christopher (Marla) Rafferty and Ross (Mallory) Rafferty; and several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. and
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, and sister Jean (Huston) Bever.
A Graveside Memorial Service for Jim will take place Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Highland Memorial Cemetery.
Donations in Jim’s memory can be made to Wabash County Shelter Buddies at 11336 N 1550 Blvd, Mt. Carmel IL 62863. Envelopes will be available at the cemetery or mailed to the funeral home.
Condolences may be made online at www.short-cunninghamfh.com
Short-Cunningham Funeral Home is honored to serve the Murphy family.
