Jack Houchin "Pete" Murphy, 85, of Friendswood, TX, formerly of Tuscola and Arcola, IL, passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2015. He was born March 25, 1930, the youngest of four children born to Leonard and Frances Houchin Murphy in Arcola, IL.

Pete graduated from Arcola schools, served in the Korean War, and worked in the chemical field for over 30 years. He was also a farmer, gardener, and property manager. Pete was a member of the Friendswood United Methodist Church. He was a Charter member of the Tuscola Elks Lodge.

Pete was preceded in death by his son Stephen J. Murphy, who died in 1995.

He is survived by his wife, Loretta Hilligoss Murphy; son Mark Houchin Murphy and his wife Pam; granddaughters Sarah Murphy and Amy Murphy; and great granddaughters Celia and Madison.

No visitation will be held, and a private burial will take place at a later date.

Memorials may be made to the City of Friendswood for Solar Lighting in Stevenson Park.

Poem

I've closed my eyes and falling asleep,
So there's no reason for you to weep;
This is a debt we all must pay,
You will see me again someday.
I've endured pain and sometimes sorrow,
Now I don't have to worry about tomorrow.
But life for you must go on,
You must not worry because I'm gone.
You stood beside me all the way,
When I was down you knew what to say...
You always told me "get some rest,"
Let me sleep now, I've done my best.
So please let me rest in peace,
The tears you're shedding soon will cease.
You'll soon realize this was meant to be,
I thank God because He came for me.

Anonymous