Murphy Lester Simon, Jr.

St. Martinville - It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Murphy L. Simon, Jr., who departed this life on January 23, 2026, at the age of 87. Born on May 14, 1938, in St. Martinville, Louisiana, Murphy was a devoted husband, father, educator, and community leader, whose impact will be felt for generations to come.A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2:00 PM Saturday, January 31, 2026 at Notre Dame Catholic Church.

A visitation will take place at Pellerin Funeral Home in St. Martinville on Friday from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM and will continue on Saturday from 7:00 AM to 12:30 PM. 

A rosary will be prayed at 6:30 PM on Friday.

Father Paul Onuegbe will officiate at the Funeral Mass. Deacon Carlton Lee will concelebrate.

Burial will follow at St. Michael Mausoleum.

Murphy proudly served in the United States Army before dedicating over 30 years of his life to the field of education with the St. Martin Parish School Board. He earned his Master's Degree and was not only an inspiring educator but also served as a principal, touching the lives of countless students and their families. His commitment to education extended beyond the classroom, as he was a passionate advocate for his community.

In addition to his educational pursuits, Murphy served as a City Councilman in St. Martinville and was an active member of the American Legion, contributing his time and talents to the betterment of his community. He was deeply loved by his family, and his unwavering support for his wife, Marie , and their extended family was a testament to his character. He was always ready and willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

Murphy is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Marie Leon Simon; his children, Clarissa Ambrose, Allison Boudreaux (Homer), Brian Filer William, Leon Murray Simon (Rachel), Latoya Simon-Antoine (Jermaine), and Kylie Simon-Price (Nicholas); many grandchildren and great grandchildren whom he loved very much; his brother, Leroy Simon; brother-in-law, Leander "Cush" Williams; sisters-in-law, Theresa Leon, Dorothy Leon, Jessie Leon, Diane White, and Linda Leon; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Murphy Simon, Sr. and Edna Louviere Simon; son, Murphy Simon, III; siblings, Gloria Williams and Regina Simon Narcisse Brown (Warren); sisters-in-law, Joyce Simon, Anna Lou Orphe, Anna Mae Leon, Emily Nedie, Deanna Leon; and brother-in-law, Leroy Leon.

Murphy Lester Simon, Jr. will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, and commitment to family and community. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center and St. Joseph Hospice for the excellent care given to Murphy.

Pellerin Funeral Home of St. Martinville (337-332-2111) is in charge of arrangements.