Tom Murphy

(From Countryside Funeral Home)

Thomas (Tom) Fred Murphy, age 80 of Moline, KS, passed away Saturday, August 12, 2023 at his home.

Tom was born July 6, 1943 in Lawrence, KS to Tom S. and Elfreda E. (Papenhausen) Raybourn.

When Tom was 3 years old, his parents divorced, and he moved with his mother to Ajo, AZ, where his mother would meet Thomas Patrick Murphy. Thomas became stepdad, but raised Tom as if he were his own. Tom became a big brother in January 1951 when his brother Patrick was born.

Tom graduated from Ajo High School in June 1961, later that summer he enlisted in the US Navy. He was proud to serve his country from 1961 to 1965. He had hoped to “Join the Navy and See the World” but never once got on a ship. He was stationed at the Point Mugo Navy Missile Base for his entire enlistment. After the Navy, Tom moved to Tucson and obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Husbandry at the University of Arizona. He wanted to continue to Veterinary School, but it just wasn’t in the cards. He remained active in the USN Reserves till 1975, where he was trained as a Helicopter Rescue Specialist/Frogman.

In 1973 while living in Pima, AZ, Tom went to work for UPS, and drove Feeder truck for them until he retired in 2002. While on his route, he struck up a friendship with Joan Helms, and after a few years of friendship, they were married on June 30, 1979. During their marriage, they lived in Meza, AZ and Flagstaff, AZ. Once they both retired, they traveled for 4 years, driving to places as far north as Manitoba, Canada and as far south as Acapulco, Mexico. They decided to find a home close to family and in 2007, moved to Moline, KS. They continued traveling and loved to go on cruises.

Tom was never someone to enjoy much down time, so after moving to Moline, he drove a school bus for West Elk Schools. He thoroughly enjoyed meeting all the kids and talking with them. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed being outdoors. Whether he was hiking, or just taking long walks, he loved enjoying nature. He also enjoyed listening to books on tape or watching a good western. He loved to joke and laugh, and was an animal lover, especially cats.

Tom is survived by his wife Joan, of the home.

Two adopted daughters:
Amy Shaw and husband Chris of Coffeyville, KS
Rhonda “Skeeter” Cloyd and husband Tim of Seneca, MO

Four grandchildren:
Cindy Cloyd of Seneca MO
Travis Cloyd of Tempe AZ
Quentin Bryant and wife Shyanne of Norfolk, VA
Lauryn Tallman and husband Caleb of Christiansburg VA

2 great-granddaughters: Annalee and Sunni

He was preceded in death by his parents, stepdad, and brother.

A memorial service to honor Tom will be held in September, with the date to be announced soon.

Memorial contributions can be made to Harry Hynes Hospice and can be mailed to or left with the funeral home.

Services entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, PO Box 1233, Howard, KS 67349