Donald Murphy

Donald “Don” Murphy, age 99, of Alliance, Ohio, went home to be with Jesus on August 27, 2026.

Don was born on August 10, 1927, in Alliance, Ohio, to the late Delvan and Marie (Steinwinder) Murphy. A proud veteran, Don served his country in both the Merchant Marines and the United States Army. Following his military service, he built a life anchored by hard work and integrity as the owner and operator of Don Murphy Excavating, where he always prided himself on complete customer satisfaction.

On November 21, 1949, Don married the love of his life, Janet, with whom he shared nearly seven decades of marriage until her passing in 2018. A true people person, Don’s warmth and genuine interest in the lives of others were constant throughout his 99 years. He loved hosting simple luncheons after church and holding family picnics. He was easily recognized by his signature tilted hat, his regular visits to Concord to swim and socialize, his Saturday morning coffee group at McDonald’s, and the winters he enjoyed at his home in Bonita Springs, Florida.

Don held a lifelong passion for both flying and riding motorcycles—hobbies he pursued well into his 88th year. He generously shared his love for aviation by taking countless friends up for plane rides, and frequently flew pastors and missionaries to their destinations.

Above all, Don prioritized serving the Lord, sharing his relationship with Jesus Christ, and encouraging others to strengthen or form their own commitment to Jesus Christ. He was a devoted member of Alliance Friends Church, faithfully attending services, prayer meetings, Men in Missions, Bible studies, and prayer breakfasts. He hosted a weekly men's group in his home, opened his doors to traveling missionaries, and looked forward to Sebring Holiness Camp each year.

In 2021, Don was blessed with the companionship of Betty Wonner. Their bond lasted until his passing and brought immense joy and warmth to his later years.

Don was preceded in death by his parents; his six siblings; his beloved wife, Janet; his son, Tim Murphy; his grandson, Jason Murphy; his granddaughter, Jennifer Reeves; and many special sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law.

He is survived by his loving and devoted daughter, Janet (Jeff) Soltis; granddaughters, Andrea (Jake) Sponseller and Jessica (Josh) Wood; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Mia Sponseller and Issac Wood, all of whom brought him endless pride and delight.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the nursing staff, aides, and peripheral staff at Copeland Oaks Assisted Living (Beeghly Building 8) for their compassionate care, as well as to the residents whose friendships Don deeply cherished. Special appreciation is also extended to the Aultman Hospice Care Team for their loving support in his final days.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2026 from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM at Alliance Friends Church. A celebration of life service will follow at 11AM at the church.  

In lieu of flowers, donations to Alliance Friends Church, Sebring Holiness Camp, or Aultman Hospice would be a gift to honor Don’s legacy.