Michael Thomas “Mike” Murphy
Michael Thomas “Mike” Murphy, 57, of Beaumont, died Wednesday, May 22, 2024, at Baptist Hospital of Southeast Texas, Beaumont. He was born on December 6, 1966, to Diane Borgen Murphy and Lawrence George Murphy, in Phoenix, Arizona.
Survivors include his son, Alex Murphy of Beaumont; mother, Diane Miller and aunts, Kathryn Darling and Rebecca Reid, all of Silsbee; uncle, Kenneth Borgen and his wife, Christina, of Los Angeles, California; many cousins; stepbrother, Eric Miller of Oregon; stepsisters, Lisa Whaley of Hemet, California; Lena Gaetan of Washington; and Kimberly Schulken of Escondido, California; and dear friend, Kelly Murphy.
Michael attended Silsbee High School, where he was installed into the National Art Honor Society recognizing his talents. He attended Texas Tech University and then Lamar University where he got his Bachelor’s of Arts in Graphic Design in 1991. He was a photographer for Lamar Photographic Services, oversaw the dark room for the Lamar Art Department, and even had a photography show at the Mary and John Gray Library. His love for art only grew as he won many awards for photography, later was commissioned for pieces for the Women’s Art League, and designed an album cover.
He loved teaching art to all ages through his years of teaching art. Michael loved explaining the historical and modern interpretations of art to his students and inspired many individuals. He saw art in everything around him which made his love for art so much more apparent.
Michael admired Keith Carter, a local well known photographer and educator. Anyone who was around him knew how much he loved the Chicago Cubs. He also shared a love for rock music artists, such as The Ramones, The Rolling Stones, The Dropkick Murphys, and a lot more. His creativity and sense of humor will forever be remembered.
Memorial contributions may be made to The Art Studio, Inc., 720 Franklin Street, Beaumont, Texas 77701.
A gathering of Mr. Murphy’s family and friends will begin at 3:00 p.m., with his memorial service to follow at 4:00 p.m., Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont. His cremation arrangements were handled through Broussard’s Crematorium.
Video
Gathering of Family and Friends
Broussard’s Mortuary Major Dr.
- 1605, North Major Drive, Beaumont, Texas, 77713,
- June 5, 2024
- 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Memorial Service
Broussard’s Mortuary Major Dr.
- 1605, North Major Drive, Beaumont, Texas, 77713,
- June 5, 2024
- 4:00 pm
I was so sad to hear of Mike’s passing. My husband and I knew him years ago and, even though we had not seen him in a long time, we always had and will always have lots of good memories (and some crazy-funny stories!). Mike was a good guy, genuine, genuinely funny and very easy to be around. Rest in Peace, Murph. – L&B
Mike’s artist’s eye enabled him to successfully direct the theatre group at Hardin High School. Visiting his classroom was a delight as his work was displayed along with the work he inspired his students to create.
It was a great pleasure to work with and get to know Mike. He was artistic, sensitive and had a knack for saying what everyone else was thinking. What great wit and humor! A huge loss to those that knew him. He would back the Cubs much to the anguish of those Astro fans around him. Condolences to his son and family. God speed Mike!
Mike was a beloved son-in-law who will be greatly missed. Besides his artistic talents, Mike possessed a keen sense of humor and the kindest heart of anyone I’ve ever known. Love you, Mike.