Kenneth Amos Murfin
Kenneth Amos Murfin of Payson, Illinois, passed away from cancer in Blessing Hospital in Quincy, Illinois on December 26, 2009. He was born in the family home near Payson on March 6, 1941 to Ralph Edward and Margie Belle (Amos) Murfin. On November 3, 1962 he married Doris Jean Kill in the Payson Christian Church.
He was a 1959 graduate of Seymour High School in Payson, IL. As an outstanding athlete he was awarded a basketball scholarship to Moberly Junior College (Missouri) where he was coached by Cotton Fitzsimmons. He enjoyed playing fast-pitch softball for the Liberty League until he was fifty years old. During that time he also donated his time and talents building the concession stand and bleachers which are still being enjoyed by many.
At the time of his death, he was employed by Aschemann – Huber Masonry Construction. Kenny loved his work and co-workers and enjoyed singing (just ask Rick), traveling, sports, family and friends. He will be remembered as being good-natured and always there to help others.
His life was based on what he had learned as a young child while attending church camp and being raised in a Christian home. He was an active member of the Richfield United Methodist Church where he served as a Sunday School teacher, Trustee of the Church Board, and performed in the Richfield Kitchen Band. He generously donated many hours toward the upkeep of the building and grounds.
Surviving are his wife and three children: Donna & (Brian) Frese of Liberty, IL, James & (Susan) Murfin of Liberty, IL., and Jayne & (Greg) Clampitt of Independence, IA.; ten grandchildren: Amanda, Austin & Aden Frese, Hillary Marks, Wade, Isaac & Brooklyn Murfin, and Garrett, Jeannett, & Jannell Clampitt; three sisters: Rowena & (Marvin) Larimore of Plainville, IL., Juanita Maple of Payson, IL., Marguerite & (Gary) Jenkins of Hellam, PA.: and many nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents, two brother-in-laws: Ronald Maple and Dean Bossarte; and a great nephew: Aaron Langan.
Visitation will be held at Duker & Haugh Funeral Home in Quincy, IL. on December 29, 2009 at 4-7pm. Funeral Services will also be there on December 30, 2009 at 1pm. Burial will be at Kingston Cemetery in Kingston, IL. Memorials are to the Richfield United Methodist Church or the Liberty Athletic Fund to purchase shade trees in his memory at their softball/baseball fields.
His family takes this opportunity to thank all who have shown their love in many ways. It has been greatly appreciated.
My very deepest sympathies for your loss at this time. Jayne and I were in sports together throughout the years at Payson. She was a year or 2 older than I was. What a tragedy for your family, Julie Kindhart (Herpin)
As a child growing up, I was inspired by Kenneth in sports. On Sundays Aunt Margie and Uncle Ralph would come to visit. Kenneth and sisters, and I would have a softball game in field behind the house. I always enjoyed the reunions because I knew it meant they would come up and we could play together. Sincerely, Gary D Amos
Dear Murfin family, Sorry to hear of Kennys passing.It has been a few years but I still remember the days of these guys on the scaffle.I believe God has a special place for bricklayers.Take care at this time and God Bless. Kenny Cramsey Jr.
My condolences to the Murfin family.
Being a 1960 graduate of Central High School I competed against Ken in basketball and especially in shotput in track. Ken was a outstanding athlete and a great person. I’m saddened by his passing. Bill Knight
May God bless your family with the peace and comfort that only he can provide. We are thinking of you all. Dewey and Margaret
I probably will not be able to attend the service or visitation for Kenny but I wanted to express my condolences. He was a fine man and I know he will be greatly missed. Please accept this email HUG and know that I would be there if I could. I am working at the Library today and don’t get off until 5:30. If the weather is good tomorrow I may get to the service but I don’t know yet. I know God is with you and your family and I hope to get to see you soon Doris. God bless you all and keep you in his care. Love, Joan
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your husband, father,and brother. Seeing your names in print brought back so many memories, and I hope you are comforted by the fact that even old friends think of you often and with great fondness. I am sending a memorial to the church. Shirley
Dear Aunt Dot and family…My heart was saddened when Jeremiah, my son, told me about Ken’s passing…but I’m trusting that Ken’s God-given faith would bring comfort and peace to you and yours…”and the peace of God which passeth all understanding shall keep your heart and minds through Christ Jesus.” “Let not your heart be troubled…” Jesus is coming soon! Sincerely “Not as those who have no hope” Jeff
My name is Mike Braungardt and I played men’s fast-pitch softball with Kenny and against him. He brought alot of fun, laughter and all around pleasure to my life. He was a great asset to the world of men’s fast-pitch softball. So sorry to hear of his passing. Sympathy to his family & friends.
Our prayers are with Kenny’s family at this time of sorrow and change. Kenny was such an upbeat and all round good person and he will be missed.
I am sorry to learn of Ken’s passing. To his family I extend condolences.
My sincere sympathy go to you and your family. I will always remember as a teenager and young adult watching Kenny pitching for his church league team AND hoping he had a bad night so OUR church team would win the game. He truly was amazing to watch.
We are very “Sorry” for youre Loss. We will keep youre family in Thoughts and Prayers