Our son and brother, Lewis Leland Murphy, 34, left us on June 26, 2025, in Helena, MT. He passed away at the family home from complications after a seizure.
Lewis was born on March 21, 1991, in Golden Valley, MN, to Lisa and Scott Murphy. He was the youngest of three sons and had a younger sister. He attended school in Lake Oswego, OR, before moving to the Helena area in 1998. He attended school in East Helena, Montana City, and Helena High School. He lived and worked in Missoula for a time, then returned to Helena in 2015.
Lewis was a character from the very start, perhaps because he felt he had to compete with two older brothers. His easy way of telling a less-than-truthful story as a youngster got him into trouble at times and led to many stories and family laughs later in life. He grew up doing what a boy his age often does: school, sports, Cub Scouts, etc. As a young teenager, he developed chronic and debilitating migraine headaches that affected and framed the rest of his life. He worked hard when he was able and had several employers who appreciated and accommodated his needs.
Lewis had a keen intellect, a quick, sometimes dark, sense of humor, and had an empathic way of connecting with people. He was a learner and challenged his worldview through reading or podcasts. He loved to share his new findings and insights with others. Within the family, this often took the form of a “Lewis drive-by” in which a thought or recent, astute world observation would be delivered at random times of the day or night. He was a big fan of stand-up comedy, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, and The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. Remember, the answer is “42”.
He had growing handyman skills and natural artistic talent, which he worked on when health allowed. He loved animals, especially his cats, and is missed greatly by furry companions Joe and Meeko. He loved and appreciated his family and their support, saving particular admiration and pride for his little sister.
Lewis is survived by his parents, Lisa and Scott Murphy; sister Nina; brothers Chris (Clara) and Andrew (Maggie); brother by choice, Matt Mergens; grandparents Lewis and Nina Savik; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; and numerous friends. Cathryn English- Straubs made a real difference in this life.
Lewis would not want you to be sad at his passing. Grieve in your own way, but he would appreciate a joke about it, as humor brings us together.
Services for Lewis will be held on Friday, August 1, at noon at Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home in Helena, with lunch provided afterwards. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Lewis’ name may be given to the Helena Humane Society or a charity of your choice.
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
12:00pm
Friday August 1, 2025
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Memorial Service
Friday August 1, 2025
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Service Schedule
Celebration of His Life
12:00pm
Friday August 1, 2025
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Memorial Service
Friday August 1, 2025
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
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Roger and Cheri Warila says
We are so very sorry and sad to learn of your loss.
With deep sympathy,
Cheri and Roger
Bob & kathy Morrison says
Scott, Lisa, family…. We are so very saddened by your loss of Lewis- we can’t imagine your profound grief and emptiness. Please know we care very much and you are in our hearts and prayers/
Bob & Kathy Morrison
Angela Getchell says
Scott, Lisa and family,
Sending prayers of healing, strength and love to you all in this time of sadness. May you hold onto all the wonderful memories you shared together and hear his laughter when you least expect it. Another beautiful soul shining from above ♥️
Hugs to you all.
The Getchell’s
Maria R Thomas says
Our heartfelt condolences for your heartbreaking loss. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
Al and Regina Thomas
Alan Massouh says
Scott, Lisa, and the Murphy family,
It’s been years since the last time I saw you. The last time I saw Lewis was a chance encounter in downtown Helena where he greeted me, of course, with a big smile and a hug that could’ve snapped me in half. Lewis was my first and best friend when I moved to Helena. With his bottomless charity of soul, he immediately scooped me up as the strange new kid on the block and we were fast friends. Together, we explored the foothills, made friends, lost friends, made mistakes, and learned lessons. Eventually we sort of grew up and life pulled us in different directions, but my final memory of Lewis will always be his beaming smile and backbreaking hug. I know I’m not supposed to be sad at his passing, but I am. Those pieces of my childhood that only Lewis will ever know are still with him and the other halves are with me. His loss has left a mark and I hope that you can find peace and comfort in time.
With Love,
Alan Massouh
Jacqueline Malatare says
Dear Scott, Lisa, and family,
I was deeply saddened to hear about Lewis’ passing. Though it’s been many years since we last saw each other, I’ll always remember him with great fondness and care. We shared a meaningful part of our lives, and the bond we formed during those years will always remain close to my heart.
I want you to know that I’m holding your family in my thoughts during this difficult time. Lewis was always thoughtful and accepting of my disability, never treating me differently — something that continues to mean a great deal to me. He and I shared a lot of laughter and love. His warmth and wry wit will not be forgotten.
I am so sorry for your loss and am wishing you strength and comfort in the days ahead.
With love, Jacqueline
The Mergens family says
Lisa, Scott and family,
We send you our deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers. Please know that we are thinking of you. We have fond memories of Lewis and are grateful that we had the opportunity to have him in our lives. We will keep Lewis in our hearts and cherish our fond memories. May god give you strength and comfort at this time. With much Love to you all, Steve, Joanne and the Mergens family
Kip says
Wish I could be there guys. Tuning in to the live stream. Love you all.
Kip