Jerome Gregory "Jerry" Murphy

MADISON - Jerome "Jerry" Murphy, 76, a cherished husband, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Oakwood Village East. His was a life rich in love, laughter, and dedication. Born on October 28, 1949, in Richland Center, Wis., Jerry was the beloved 11th child of Leo and Ruth Murphy. He grew up in a bustling household, always surrounded by siblings, which fostered his love for sports and adventure. A proud 1968 graduate of North Crawford High School in Gays Mills, Jerry spent his formative years working in the apple orchards and organizing impromptu car wash events, laying the foundation for a strong work ethic that would follow him throughout his life.

Shortly after graduation, Jerry moved to Madison, joining many of his siblings in the vibrant community there. He embraced a variety of vocations that kept him physically active, including working in a lumber yard, as a furniture mover, and in silo building. Jerry ultimately dedicated 25 years of service to the Walgreen Warehouse before retiring, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and camaraderie.

In Madison, Jerry met the love of his life, Carol, and they were married on August 12, 1978. Their marriage was a testament to joy and shared passions, as they spent nearly five decades creating countless memories with family and friends. Together, along with Carol's sister and nephew, they lovingly restored a cottage in Montello, where they hosted numerous family gatherings, building lasting friendships along the way. Jerry's boisterous enthusiasm was a hallmark of his presence at his nephews' sporting events, where his spirited cheers could always be heard from the sidelines.

Jerry was a devoted fan of the Badgers, Packers, and Brewers, a passion that stemmed from his youthful days of forming pick-up sports teams with his siblings. His athletic prowess was evident early on, as he lettered in football, wrestling, and track during high school. He continued his love for sports by participating in Madison sports leagues, including flag football and softball.

Jerry was diagnosed with Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease over 30 years ago. Because of his active lifestyle he was able to enjoy many years of quality time including three cruises, winter trips to Florida, trips to three Wisconsin Badger Rose Bowl games, participation in seven marathons and running numerous 10k runs for charity. He was also active in Parkinson’s support groups where he encouraged others to keep moving, always leading by example.

His need for perpetual motion was evidenced in his love of dance and music. His moves and lyrics were often uniquely his own and quite memorable. His final year was limited to chair dancing, but, as always, he was determined to keep on moving as best he could.

In 2011, Jerry and Carol made the thoughtful decision to move to Oakwood Village Prairie Ridge, ensuring their continued independence while having access to higher levels of care when needed. This decision exemplified their practical and forward-thinking nature, always planning for the future while enjoying the present.

Jerry is predeceased by his parents, Leo and Ruth Murphy; his sister, Mary Anderson; brother, Mike Murphy; brothers-in-law, Dick Barlow, Gary George, Dennis Anderson, Leo Shillinglaw and Jim Daane; nephews, Mikey Murphy and Joel Diffenbach; and three siblings who died at birth. He is survived by his devoted wife, Carol; his brothers, Pat (Mary Terese) Murphy, Jim Murphy and Tom (Jan) Murphy; his sisters, Monica George, JoAnn Barlow, Margaret (Doug) Ransom, Katie Barnett, Ruth (Darrell) Myers and Rose Shillinglaw; brother-in-law, Paul (Nancie) Fuhremann; sister-in-law, Barb Daane; and three generations of nieces and nephews, many cousins, and friends, all of whom cherish his memory.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held at the TREE OF LIFE CHAPEL AT OAKWOOD VILLAGE, 5565 Tancho Drive, Madison, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 22, 2026, with Oakwood’s Chaplain Wayne Shannon officiating. Visitation will be at the chapel from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at Oakwood Village, Meadows, and the wonderful, supportive staff of SSM Hospice. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Jerry's memory to the Oakwood Foundation Continuing Care Fund or the SSM Health at Home Foundation of Wisconsin, a testament to the exceptional care he received and the values he held dear throughout his life.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420