Johnye L. Strickland Murphy
Johnye L. Strickland Murphy, age 93, passed quietly into the arms of her Savior Jesus Christ on Jan. 11, 2021.
She was born on Jan. 29, 1927 to the late John Frederick Strickland and Roxie England Strickland. Johnye shared a happy childhood with her younger brother, Giley Strickland, in the rural area between Howe and Van Alstyn. She would often share stories of how times were tough back then-- including farm chores and riding her pony to school.
After high school graduation in 1943, Johnye began her working career with Bell Telephone in Dallas. Shortly thereafter, she married her high school sweetheart, Dale Murphy, and relocated to Archer City. Johnye’s life demonstrated her love for God and family. She taught valuable life lessons and instilled values that made a difference in her home. Over the next few years, Johnye devoted herself to being a homemaker and loving mother for her sons, Dale Jr. and Gary John. No sacrifice was too great to make for her husband and sons, and she did this almost daily. In 1961, the family moved from town to the ranch north of Archer City, where Johnye resided until her death. Johnye was very detail oriented, a skill which she put to good use in keeping books for Murphy Chevrolet and various family businesses over the years. Her detailed notes and instructions, all in beautiful handwriting, kept the entire family in line.
Becoming a grandmother, Johnye turned another page in life. She had such love for her grandsons, Bret and Drew, and this love was returned in full. To this day, they frequently share fond memories of “Johnye and Granddad”. Their wives, Shannon and Val also loved Johnye, for she treated everyone kindly and respectfully. Years later, she was again blessed with the arrival of her great grandson, Dylan, who has also brought much love and joy. Johnye loved and supported First Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday school for many years. Many former students have fondly remembered being in Johnye’s class. Johnye had a special place in her heart for the people of Archer County, both young and old. She truly had a heart for giving, and for meeting the needs of others. She will be greatly missed by people of all ages.
Johnye was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Dale, and her loving brother Giley Strickland, and his wife, Betty Voss Strickland. Survivors include sons, Dale Jr. and wife Barbara; Gary Murphy and Nancy McKinley-Murphy; grandsons, Bret Murphy and wife Shannon, and Drew Murphy and wife Valentene; great grandson, Dylan Murphy. Nieces: Amy and husband Steve Elliott, and son Justin Strickland and wife Chelsea; Maymie and husband George Campbell, daughter Kelly Rains and husband Luke, and son Connor Campbell; Kristi and husband Ken Purcell, and sons Jack and Joseph Purcell. The family wishes to thank Dr. Arti Patel and the staff of Encompass Health Rehab Hospital, and Dr. Elvira Tolentino and office staff for their loving care and concern during Johnye’s recent hospitalization.
Memorials may be made to the Youth Fund at First Baptist Church Archer City, PO Box 756, Archer City, TX 76351, Archer City Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 367, Archer City, TX 76351, Archer Service Center, PO Box 578, Archer City, TX 76351, or to the charity of your choice. Due to the COVID situation, a celebration of Johnye’s life will be held at a future date when times are safer.
