(From Parker Mortuary)On December 30th, 2025, Charles Wayne Murdock, age 74, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous battle with cancer. Born on November 27, 1951, in Rogers, Arkansas, to Robert H. Murdock and Billie Jean Murdock (Barker).
Wayne graduated from Parkwood High School in 1970 and served honorably in the United States Navy from 1971 to 1974. In 1987, he met the love of his life, Jeanne Sue Whited. They tied the knot in June of 1993 in Miami, Oklahoma, and together built a life filled with love and family.
One of Wayne's greatest passions was music. He picked up the guitar at 14 and became an accomplished musician, showcasing his talent by playing various stringed instruments, including the banjo, by ear. Wayne enjoyed performing at Cactus Jack's Opry on Saturday nights and volunteered to play music at different nursing homes in the area during his free time. His deep appreciation for all styles of music, from country to gospel to rock, was evident. Wayne was particularly fond of artists like Johnny Paycheck and Jimi Hendrix.
Wayne often looked back on his younger days playing baseball in Tulsa, where he created lasting memories. A dedicated worker, he found his place at Premier Trucking in 2002, where he remained until his recent illness. He loved his job and appreciated all the friendships he formed along the way. Above all, Wayne was a remarkable man who valued his family and fought his illness bravely until the very end.
Wayne is preceded in death by his grandson, Laken Murdock, and both of his parents. He is survived by his devoted wife, Sue Murdock of Joplin, MO; his brother, Kevin Murdock (Bonnie) of Springfield, MO; his children, Kyle Murdock (Shelley) of Joplin, MO, Cory Murdock (Bevin Stogsdill) of Neosho, MO, Sara Ferris (Ronnie Metcalf) of Joplin, MO, and Jake Murdock (Jamie) of Lake St. Louis, MO, and his grandchildren Katie Murdock and Elsie Murdock.
In accordance with Wayne's wishes, we will honor his memory by providing a space for reflection and peace; no funeral services will be held.
“Hold on to what is good, Even if it’s a handful of earth. Hold on to what you believe, Even if it’s a tree that stands by itself. Hold on to what you must do, Even if it’s a long way from here. Hold on to your life, Even if it’s easier to let go.” -Choctaw Proverb
Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin, Missouri.
I'm so sad to see the passing of Wayne. I've known Wayne since the days that he, My brother Mike Johnson and I attended Silver Creek Scool. Our parents were good friends and when we would go to visit them, Wayne would play his guitar while we listened toThe Beach Boys. Those were simpler days.
ReplyDeleteMy sincere condolences to his entire family.
Janet Johnson Messner