Joseph Franklin Murphy

Mr. Joseph Franklin Murphy passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025 in Gainesville, Georgia. He was born to the late John Elisha Murphy and Annie Caroline Talley Murphy on October 12, 1927 in Gainesville, Georgia.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, August 19, 2025 at 10:00 AM in the Chapel at Memorial Park Funeral Home. The family will be receiving friends on Monday, August 18, 2025 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at Memorial Park Funeral Home.

Joe dedicated his life to serving God, his family, and his community. Saved as a young boy and baptized in the river, he remained a faithful member of Sardis Baptist Church throughout his life.

Joe was an avid outdoorsman who found joy in fishing and hunting. Known for his patience and kindness, he taught many of his nieces and nephews the art of fishing and hunting—baiting hooks, cleaning fish, and cooking meals so the children could simply enjoy the fun. To countless family and friends, he was lovingly known as “Uncle Joe,” and time spent with him was always cherished.

A hardworking man who loved the outdoors, Joe tended a bountiful garden year after year. He especially enjoyed growing strawberries, peaches, scuppernongs, and a wide variety of vegetables. Generous to a fault, he delighted in sharing his harvest, often preparing, preserving, and gifting his produce to family, friends, and neighbors.

A lifelong sports enthusiast and devoted Georgia Bulldog fan, Joe will also be remembered for his impressive three-point basketball shooting. Beyond his many talents and hobbies, he was proud to serve his country in the United States Army during World War II.

He is preceded in death by his siblings, Mary Hazel Smith, Bessie Whitlow, Edna McCrary Stover, Marion (Buster) Murphy, Millard (Cricket) Murphy, Paul Murphy, and Clarence Murphy.

He is survived by his brother, John Murphy Jr. of Gainesville, Ga; and many nieces and nephews.

Joe will be remembered as a devoted Christian, a loyal friend, a loving relative, and the kind of man everyone was blessed to know.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Drive, Gainesville, Georgia 30504 is in charge of the arrangements.

Send online condolences to memorialparkfuneralhomes.com