It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of William Michael Murphy, affectionately known as "Billy," AKA Coach Billy. A beloved husband, father, son, uncle, and friend passed away peacefully in his home on December 21, 2024, at the age of 46 surrounded by those who he loved the most.

Billy was born on October 2, 1978, in Gainesville, Fl. He grew up to be one of the strongest men we have ever known. He fought the hardest battle that no one should have to fight. July 26th 2023 he was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer while undergoing treatment it quickly spread to his brain. He fought his battle with grace, resilience, strength. He had the determination to make it to his son's wedding and his daughters 14th birthday. In true Billy fashion, he did both.

In his personal life he devoted every second of his life to his family, April, Tyler and Emily. They were his reason 'why'. April was not only a spouse but a life partner at which they shared a beautiful journey. He raised Tyler and Emily to be honest, loyal, courageous and to always reach for the stars. The years he spent coaching baseball and teaching countless young men not only the game of baseball, but life as well, will always be part of his legacy. He was an expert fisherman and loved to be on the water. He was also a skilled hobby mechanic who was always helping others when in need.

In his professional life he was employed for the past 26 years at Homes of Merit where he began as an hourly employee then through qualities such as his work ethic, punctuality, consistency, reliability, and being a perfectionist, he worked his way up to plant production manager to provide for his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of 21 years April Murphy. His legacy continues through their Son Tyler Myrick and his wife Kayla, as well as their daughter Emily Murphy, and special niece Taylor Minatree. Billy is also survived by his farther Gary Murphy, his sister Marie Lynn, his mother-in-law Carole Strickland, Grandmother Kathleen Horton, numerous nieces, and nephews along with extended family and friends. In addition to his pups Cooper, Mabel, and Pearl.

He is preceded in death by his mother Virginia Horton Murphy, sister Teresa Murphy Bissett and his beloved pup Izzy who were waiting at the pearly gates upon his arrival.

Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life to be held on Saturday, January 4th at 1:00 pm at Columbia High School baseball stadium. The family wishes are for you to come listen and share beautiful memories and stories of Billy. Casual attire or your favorite baseball jersey, hat, your lawn chair, bring your glove and join us for a catch on the field. Please share any pictures and/or your favorite Billy story with April at remberingbillymurphy@gmail.com.