Bobby Murphy

Bobby Murphy, 37, of Winterset, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at his home.

Robert “Bobby” Murphy III was born on March 19, 1989, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, to Robert Jr. and Katie (Bunce) Murphy. He moved to Winterset in 2001 and graduated from Winterset High School in 2007. Bobby was married to Emily Stichter and was employed by Ted Lare Landscaping.

Bobby was the life of the party. Everywhere he went, he wanted everyone to have a good time. He loved being the center of attention and making people laugh. He always had a story to tell. Whether it was a crazy memory from childhood or something new he had watched on Netflix, he always kept everyone entertained.

His laugh was contagious, and you couldn't help but laugh along with him. Whether he was dancing, making a sarcastic joke, or pretending he was "sexy," he always had everyone smiling. Bobby was also one of the kindest people you could ever meet. He was always looking for ways to help those around him, and over the years, he touched countless lives. He'd walk into a room with his hat and sunglasses on and a smirk across his face, and you just knew he was ready to brighten everyone's day. If you were having a bad day, he'd wrap you in one of his famous bear hugs and crack a joke until you smiled.

His family meant everything to him. He shared a special bond with his dad that only fathers and sons could truly understand. They even shared the same passion for hollering about turning the lights off to keep the bill down. Bobby was also a true mama's boy who cherished his mother. Together, they could have put on a stand-up comedy show. And while he loved picking on his little sister, he was always there to protect her. They shared a bond and a love that only siblings can understand.

Bobby was an incredible father. He was endlessly proud of his children and loved them with all his heart. He would do anything for them and worked tirelessly to provide them with the best life he could. To his wife, Emily, Bobby was everything she could have ever asked for. He was her rock, her greatest supporter, and her best friend. After 15 years together, his love for her only grew stronger with each passing day. Whether he was giving foot rubs, helping with the laundry, or simply filling their home with laughter and joy, he was happiest by her side.

Bobby leaves behind a simple but powerful reminder: Don't take life too seriously. Love with your whole heart, laugh every chance you get, and never miss an opportunity to make someone smile.

Bobby is survived by his wife, Emily; his children, Chasen and Madilyn; his parents, Bob and Katie Murphy; and his sister, Kaitlyn (Kristina) Wright. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Robert Rodney Murphy Sr.; and uncle, Ralph Bunce.

A Celebration of Life will be held from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Saturday, August 8, 2026 at the Jackson Building in Winterset. Memorials may be directed to the family for a future designation.