Gerald Lawrence Murphy born August 8, 1931, died April 17, 2016 of Parkinson Disease.He was preceded in death by his parents John and Ruth Murphy of Alvin, Texas, Sister Sadie Marie and his ex-wife Jacquelyn Murphy Hawley. He is survived by a sister Shirley Carpenter of Alvin, Texas, daughter Vikki and husband Gary Naylor of San Angelo, TX. Daughter Kandi and husband Don Bagwell, daughter DeeDee and husband Alan Neal, and daughter Angie Fields all of Midland, TX. Son Law and wife Burgundy Murphy of Georgetown, TX; stepchildren, Ron Ward and Ronda Dye of California and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.Dad graduated from Alvin, TX High School at age 16 where he was involved in all sports including cheerleading. He then attended Jr. College, then enlisted in the Army at age 18, was stationed in Germany from 1949-1953. He graduated from University of Texas, Austin with a BA in Petroleum Engineering. His Oil and Gas career led him to Tripoli, Libya, Houston, TX, Gainesville, TX then West Texas where he finished out his career.Jerry or Dad, as many knew him, was a Veteran of Foreign Wars, a member of the Society of Petroleum Engineering, Kiwanis International, Toastmasters and the Rotary Club. He refereed basketball games and also mentored young adults that were up and coming business leaders. He enjoyed playing golf, tennis, racquetball, and chess and fishing. He was a tenor and loved singing in the church choir and barbershop quartets.Our favorite memories with our Father were family road trips, games and songs. He supported us through vaccinations, spelling bees, swim team, cheerleading and rebelettes, and teaching us all to drive. He actually let Law drive at age 8. Guess he wasn’t that brave with us girls. His favorite line at the dinner table was “Can you hold it down to a roar”. He loved to scare us and play tricks on us he was quite the jokester.Divorce, cancer, back surgeries and Parkinson Disease have never deterred his indomitable spirit and his concern for friends and family. He loved the Lord! We will all miss you Dad (Papa Jerry).In lieu of flowers or monetary donations please contact your local VA Home to find out what their needs are, or visit a lonely Veteran there, so many die alone.In honor of our Fathers wishes there will be a private family memorial.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com ,
