James E. Murphy, age 89, of Portage passed away Thursday May 28, 2015 at the Brookdale of Portage Assisted Living Center. James was born October 11, 1925 in Japton, Arkansas to the late Claude and Ovie (Jackson) Murphy. James was a millwright that retired from Bethlehem Steel in 1998. James will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

James is survived by his two sons Darrell (Sherry) Murphy of Valparaiso and Claude Murphy and Karleen of Novi, Michigan; his daughter Rosanne (James) Fox of Portage; his brother Charles Murphy of Arkansas; eight grandchildren; twelve great grandchildren; and many other loving family members and friends.

James was preceded in death by his loving wife of 68 years Ann (Puckett) Murphy; his parents; and one sister Marie Daniels.

Funeral services for James will be Tuesday, June 2, 2015 at 10:00 am with Pastor Bob Burton officiating, at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel 5341 Central Avenue Portage, Indiana 46368. Burial will follow in Chapel Lawn Cemetery. Visitation for James will be Monday, June 1, 2015 from 4-7 pm.

James' family request that no flowers be sent for his services.