D. Michael "Mike" Murphy, 72, of Lenexa, Kansas, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, March 30th, 2025.
Born in Lindsay, Oklahoma, Mike moved many times before settling in Hobbs, New Mexico. He graduated from Hobbs High School in 1970 as an accomplished athlete, recognized as an all-state football player and javelin thrower. Mike continued his education and football career at the University of Arkansas, graduating in 1974 with a Bachelor's degree in Business and proud member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity.
Mike had a distinguished 25-year career with Sprint, culminating as Director of Marketing and Sales in Leawood, KS. Known for his charismatic personality, determination, and leadership, Mike was respected by colleagues and peers alike. He greatly enjoyed mentoring emerging business leaders at Kansas State and Kansas University’s Schools of Business, serving as Sprint’s formal advisor.
Outside his professional life, Mike was passionate about fishing, hunting, and BBQ. As a certified BBQ judge with the American Royal BBQ Association, he enjoyed competing and judging events across several states. However, Mike’s greatest passion was his family, whom he deeply cherished.
Mike is survived by his loving wife, Terri Murphy; son Brandon Murphy, daughter-in-law Ashley, and grandsons Maximus and Atticus; daughter Melissa Harrison and son-in-law Michael; sisters Denise Thomas (Jim) and Teresa McGuffey (Ernie); beloved aunt and uncle Pat and Jetta Murphy; and numerous cherished aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
A celebration of Mike’s life will be held at Lenexa Baptist Church in Lenexa, Kansas, on Saturday, April 12th, beginning with visitation at 9:30 am, followed by the service at 10:30 am. Flowers are being arranged by The Flower Market in Lenexa.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Mike’s honor to Cadence International / Rozmiarek, a ministry dedicated to supporting military families in the United States and abroad. Donations can be made online at https://cadence.org/missionary/lou-and-cathy-rozmiarek/.
Mike leaves behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and unwavering commitment to those he loved. Now at peace in Christ's embrace, he will be dearly missed by all who knew him. Please join the family in celebrating Mike’s remarkable life.