
October 26, 1932 – January 22, 2025
Leonard Murphy of Yreka, California left us peacefully on January 22, 2025 at Madrone Hospice, with his children by his side. He was 92 years old. A beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, great-grandfather and uncle, Leonard will always be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and strong work ethic.
Leonard was born on October 26, 1932 near Wagner, Oklahoma to John P. and Jewel Murphy. He was one of eight children. In 1940, the family left Oklahoma and moved west to California. During the Korean War, Leonard proudly served his country overseas in the Army. After his tour of duty, he came home to Lancaster, California where he was married to Lora Ridgway for 30 years and had two children, Rodney and Rhonda. He later in life married Fleta Ellis. Leonard and Fleta spent many happy years together in Yreka until Fleta’s death in 2016.
Leonard worked hard all his life. He picked cotton as a child and later hauled hay as a young man. Leonard drove truck for 65 years, stating on more than one occasion, “I loved driving”. He worked for Pacific Motor Trucking, Butler Oil Trucking, and Peter’s Truckline. After retiring from Peter’s Trucking, he worked for Stan Sears hauling cattle until he was 85 years old.
Leonard is survived by his sister Ruby White; son Rodney Murphy and wife Chris of Fallon, NV; daughter Rhonda Eckart and husband Mike of Yreka; grandson Jason Gunn and wife Katie of Weed; grandson Ryan Murphy of Lemoore, CA; great grandchildren Hailey, Kolton and Ainsley Gunn; and many nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.
Leonard was preceded in death by his parents John P. and Jewel Murphy; wife Fleta Murphy; siblings Luther Murphy, Opal Allen, Pearl Marsh, Geneva Vale, Hershel Murphy, and Herald Murphy.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at Girdner Funeral Chapel, 202 South Oregon Street in Yreka. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Madrone Hospice, 255 Collier Circle, Yreka, CA 96097.
Memorial Service
Thursday, February 13, 2025
11:00AM
Girdner Funeral Chapel
202 S. Oregon St.
Yreka, CA 96097
sourced: Girdner Funeral Chapel