Obituary of Johnny Murphy

Murphy, Johnny “Bubba”

Bay City, Michigan

Johnnie “Bubba” Murphy was born on March 31, 1940, in Riverview, Alabama

to the late Hattie W. Murphy Sisson. He lived in Riverview throughout his childhood, with his mother and grandparents, John and Rebbeca Murphy, graduating in 1959 from Rehobeth High School “Go Bulls”! In high school he enjoyed science and playing basketball.  In 1963, John relocated to Bay City, Michigan to be with his mother and siblings, and to secure work.  His first job was with Tim Sweet Janitorial Service and was later hired at General Motors where he worked for over 36 years, retiring October 1, 2000.   

In 1976 he found a “good thing” and obtained favor from the Lord (Proverbs 18:22).  Indeed, John did find his “good thing” in Barbara Burke! They were united in holy matrimony on December 24, 1977, and their union was blessed for 48 years.

John gave his life to Christ and joined the Historic Second Baptist Church where he was a dedicated and active member, always available and able for ministry and service!  He enjoyed Sunday School, prayer meetings, and Bible study.   Brother Murphy served as a member of the Trustee Board, was a great vocalist in the Senior Choir, and previously served as an usher.  His favorite songs were, “I Get a Blessing Everyday”, “Higher Ground”, “Learning to Lean on Jesus”, and “Do What the Lord Say Do”.    John believed in “studying to show himself approved”.  It gave him great joy to study and be a part of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., and the Christian Leadership School Curriculum. He had multiple course certifications from C.O.P.P. (now renamed the Christian Educators Certification Program).

John leaves to cherish his loving memories, his beautiful and devoted wife, Barbara J. Murphy; son, John (Denise) Winston, of Elk Grove, CA; daughter, Jennifer (Thomas, Jr.) Searcy of Elyria, Ohio; two granddaughters, three grandsons, and four great grandchildren. Also, surviving are his beloved siblings, brothers, Steve Sisson, Jr. of Atlanta, GA, and Ernest (Linda) of Redford, Michigan; sisters, Charlotte Sission of Lannette, Alabama, Barbara (Ricky) Layton of Shreveport, LA, Myra (Otis) Liggins of Flint, Michigan, Tina Dawson of Bay City, Michigan, and Victoria Phillips of Gurnee, Illinois; aunt, Leotha Murphy of Bay City; a host of nieces and nephews, Goddaughter, Alyssa Phillips; Godsons, Michael Hendricks and Cordal Morris;  special friends, Bro. Elonzo Smith, Sis. Dorothy Smith, and Sis. Stella Pearson; and the “Alabama Five” that he talked to on a weekly basis.

He was predeceased by his mother, Hattie Sisson; grandparents, John and Rebecca Murphy; sister, Canzella Sisson; brother, Gerald Sisson; uncles, Ernest and Willie Murphy; and aunt, Louise Murphy.

A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 11:00 A.M., at the Historic Second Baptist Church, 1770 W. Youngs Ditch Road, Bay City, Michigan, with Pastor Marcelle T. Smith officiating. Visitation will take place at the church prior to the service from 9:00 A.M. until 10:00 A.M., and Family Hour from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society. To sign online guestbook, visit www.hyattewald.com. Arrangements made with Hyatt-Ewald Funeral Home.