John Perry Murphy was born on October 3, 1957, in Kansas City, Missouri, and passed away on February 1, 2026, in Kansas City, Missouri.
John was the son of William Joseph Murphy and Barbara Ann Chenoweth, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sisters, Kimberly Irene Murphy and Kelly Ethelyn Murphy.
John made his home in Kansas City, Missouri, where he spent his life working, raising his family, and caring for the family farm. He worked for more than 20 years as a truck driver for Associated Wholesale Grocers, a career that reflected his strong work ethic, reliability, and dedication.
John was a true believer in Jesus Christ, and his faith guided the way he lived his life. He believed in kindness, service, and helping others, and he lived those values daily through his actions.
Family was the center of John’s life. He spent as much time as he possibly could with his family and friends and was always helping others. He especially cherished the time he spent with his daughter, Amy Renae Murphy, and his grandson, Michael Forrest Estep.
From the time his son Samuel Isaiah Murphy was just four years old, John passed down his love of mechanics, problem-solving, and hands-on learning. John worked on his own 1970 Lincoln Mark III with Samuel right by his side, patiently teaching and explaining every step along the way. As Samuel grew, John continued sharing his knowledge, helping him work on the audio system in a 1978 Mercury Cougar, teaching him how to work on cars, car audio systems, lawnmowers, firearms, and just about anything mechanical. John made sure Samuel experienced as many automotive and car-audio events as possible, shaping a lifelong passion through time spent together.
John shared a special bond with his daughter Amy through their mutual love of petrology and geology. Together, they enjoyed attending rock and mineral shows whenever they could, learning and exploring side by side.
His grandson Michael loved spending time with his “GOO-PA,” happily joining him at events, projects, and outings. John was known within the family as a walking, talking encyclopedia, always ready with knowledge, explanations, and stories, something Michael especially loved.John also valued time with his extended family in Wichita, Kansas, particularly his sisters Joan Frances Ledbetter and Marsha Michelle Miller.
He dearly loved his dogs, Squirt (Squirtle) and Shred (Shredder), who brought him constant companionship and joy. He also deeply missed his beloved dog Scarlett, whom he spoke about often, nearly every day, remembering her with love.
John found peace working on the farm, always trying to get it “whipped into shape.” Some of his favorite moments were simple ones, Saturday mornings spent watching This Old House and Steven Raichlen’s Barbecue, sharing conversation, curiosity, and laughter.
John will be remembered as a kind, hardworking man who gave freely of his time, knowledge, and heart. He lived a life centered on faith, family, service, curiosity, and quiet strength.
John is survived by his son, Samuel Isaiah Murphy; his daughter, Amy Renae Murphy; his grandson, Michael Forrest Estep; his sisters, Joan Frances Ledbetter and Marsha Michelle Miller; and many other family members and friends who loved him dearly.
He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Visitation will be from 10:00-11:00 a.m. with Funeral Services at 11:00 a.m. Monday, February 9th at Hixson-Klein Funeral Home in Smithville, MO.Burial will be at Community of Smithville Memorial Cemetery.
