The family is sad to announce that Richard Barton Murphy of Didsbury passed away at Didsbury District Health Services on April 5, 2026 at the age of 76 years. He was born in Didsbury and was the third of seven children born to Clifford and Angeline Murphy. He grew up on the family farm, started school at Westcott and after the school closed, was bussed to Didsbury school where he attended until he stopped to help on the farm.

Richard enjoyed skating at the rink, played baseball at Westcott, and then played minor hockey in Didsbury coached by his dad. It was a busy time growing up with his older brother and sister Frank and Bonnie and then his younger siblings Donna, Tom, Mike and Pat. Lots of great memories of getting together with aunts, uncles and cousins on both the Murphy and Kohut sides of the family.

He was a member of Westcott Community Association, Rural Crime Watch, and Didsbury and

District Museum.

After his parents moved into Aspen Ridge Lodge in 2008, Richard remained on the farm until 2015 when he moved to College Green Apartments.

Once he lived in town, he joined the Five-0 Club and participated in many activities. The fellow residents of the apartment and the seniors that he interacted with became good friends. He also attended the Adult Day Program and enjoyed the art programs.

Richard is survived by his Aunt Anne Kohut, Sister-in-law Fran, sisters Bonnie (Wayne) Kellsey and Donna as well as his brothers Tom (Penny), Mike (Bev) and Pat. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and multiple cousins.

He was predeceased by his parents Clifford and Angeline, oldest brother Frank, sisters-in-law Edna and Jody and niece Bobby Jensen.

Thank you to the Home Care and Acute Care Staff and the Adult Day Program.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.heartlandfuneralservices.com. Arrangements in care of: Heartland Funeral Services Ltd., 5226 – 46 Street, Olds, Alberta. Phone: 403.507.8610

• Date : 2026-04-18
• Location : Heartland Funeral Services (Olds) www.heartlandfuneralservices.com 403.507.8610