Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

HOT SPRINGS — Like his father before him, Roy Lee Murphy Jr.

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rose early on a Sunday morning to walk with his Savior. Lee was surrounded by his wife, Chris, and his children, David and Kate (Hamner). His earthly body is no longer burdened, and he is breathing deeply in His presence.

Lee will be remembered as a loving husband to his amazing wife Chris, a loyal and fun brother to his sisters (Dana Lane, Susan Humphries, and Kelly McQueen), and a faithful son to his mom (Betty Murphy). Together with Chris (as Grandad and Honey), Lee was devoted to his six grandchild­ren: Molly, Margo, and Mae Murphy, daughters of David and Heather Murphy; Colt, Murphy, and Skip Hamner, children of Kate and Jonathan Hamner.

As a “project guy,” Lee completed many creative projects for the entertainm­ent of family and friends—carving pumpkins, making bat houses, creating a camping property, building homes for family members, and fully-equipping, meticulous­ly organizing his workshop. With Chris, Lee enjoyed supporting every Razorback team with regular attendance. He was seen driving the “Hog Hauler” 1995 Astro Van which he decorated and detailed. Nothing made Lee happier than planning outdoor events for his family members including weenie roasts, skeet shooting, hay rides, and spud gun making. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, Eagle Scout, and long-time member of the Lake Ouachita Camping Associatio­n.

Lee studied at the University of Arkansas and later received his Profession­al Engineerin­g license while working at MidSouth Engineerin­g. Working his way through the ranks during his 40-

year tenure, he was President for 15 years before retiring in late 2022. Under his leadership, the company grew and expanded its expertise nationally and internatio­nally into new areas including energy, mining, and other sustainabl­e manufactur­ing projects.

Lee faithfully served the community through numerous board positions, such as with the Garland County Housing Authority, Boy Scouts of America, and Abilities Unlimited. Lee and Chris, as well as their children, have been active members of First Baptist Church, Hot Springs, for many years.

Visitation with family will be held at Gross Funeral Home on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, from 5–7 p.m.

A Memorial Service will be held at First Baptist Church, Hot Springs, on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at 10 a.m.

Love, support, condolence­s and memories can be shared and viewed at www.Grossfuner­alhome.com.

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