Gowan Murphy

The world lost a truly unique man when Gowan Murphy, 81, peacefully passed away on September 20, 2025, at his home in Corsicana, Texas, sitting in his recliner. Born on August 23,1944, in Corsicana to Bill and Vera Budai Murphy, Gowan grew up with a love of hard work and wide-open spaces. He graduated from Corsicana High School, attended Navarro College, and went on to earn a master's degree in education from Sam Houston State University. Throughout his life, Gowan was known for his work ethic, love of the land and devotion to family and community. Gowan began his teaching career at Corsicana ISD, where he taught science and shop for seven years. In 1971, he started his own dirt excavation business, later worked in sales at the local Toyota dealership for eight years. Eventually he returned to the classroom in 1987 to teach special education at Wortham ISD for another seven years. He also delivered the Dallas Morning News across Navarro and surrounding counties, mowed roadways, and took on countless other jobs too numerous to list. But of all his many talents and ventures, the role that brought him the most joy was driving a school bus. For 32 years, he safely carried generations of students to and from school. Gosh he loved those kids, and they loved him right back. Gowan’s impact on Corsicana ISD also extended to advocacy—he played a key role in improving the district’s pay structure, lobbying for increases for bus drivers, custodians, and teachers. A true jack of all trades, Gowan could fix or build anything he set his mind to. He drove dump trucks, rode bulls, and farmed the land. He loved rodeos, and each year looked forward to the Houston Livestock Show and the Texas State Fair. He was the essence of a cowboy, he embodied the rugged, genuine spirit of Texas. He was happiest outdoors in his workshop and surrounded by the people he loved. He lived and died a contented and satisfied man. Gowan is survived by his daughter, Courtney Murphy; his sister, Billie Weatherby, and her son, Wade Weatherby (Tammy) and the love of his life, Ruth Baker. Also survived by Mollie and Annie, his much-loved blue heeler dogs. There will be an opportunity during the service to share memories and stories of Gowan—the man we all loved so dearly. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 26, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home, 1530 N. 45th St., Corsicana, TX 75110. A memorial service will follow on Saturday, September 27, at 10:00 a.m. at the same location.

Gowan Murphy

August 23, 1944 - September 20, 2025