Murphy Aaron

On March 10, 1960, in El Dorado, the late Superintendent Donnie Aaron Jr. and Dora Jean Reddick Aaron joyfully welcomed their 14th child and youngest son, Murphy Joe Aaron, into the world.

Murphy was raised on Wesson Street, where his adventurous spirit and vibrant personality were evident from an early age. Full of life and curiosity, he embraced each day with energy and determination.

He attended El Dorado Public Schools and graduated from high school in 1978. During his school years, he proudly represented his school as a member of the Wildcat Marching Band, where he played the tuba with passion and pride.

After graduation, Murphy began his career with El Dorado Water Utilities, dedicating several years of service before stepping out in faith to establish his own business, Murphy Aaron Construction, LLC. Known for his unmatched work ethic and bold spirit, Murphy truly “moved the earth” as a skilled heavy equipment operator. His company slogan reflected both his personality and commitment: “If you needed it done yesterday, call Murphy today.” In addition to running his own business, he also served for many years as a trusted general contractor for Dr. Johnny Hinton.

Above all, Murphy was a man of deep faith and devotion. He faithfully served as pastor of Holy Ghost Love Headquarters Church of God in Christ in Smackover, Arkansas, and Holy El Bethel Church of God in Christ in Burden, Arkansas, leading with compassion, strength, and a heart for God’s people.

Murphy was known for his warm, welcoming smile and his gift for sharing parables about life—lessons that were simple, meaningful, and rooted in truth. He never met a stranger; to Murphy, everyone was a friend waiting to be embraced.

He found great joy in talking about the Lord and living out his faith daily. Whether he was spending time with family and friends, extending hospitality to others, or simply sharing a meal, Murphy made people feel seen, valued, and at home. He loved riding his motorcycle, firing up the grill, and buying and riding new bicycles—finding happiness in both adventure and the simple pleasures of life.

Most of all, Murphy believed in being his true, authentic self. He lived boldly and genuinely, leaving a lasting impression on everyone blessed to know him.

Following Suzette’s untimely passing, Murphy was blessed with love again when he united in marriage with Wanda Faye Billings Aaron. Wanda was more than his wife—she was his trusted confidant, his constant companion, and his forever date night. Together, they shared a deep bond filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. Whether enjoying quiet moments at home or stepping out together, their connection was evident to all who knew them. Through this union, Murphy lovingly embraced and gained two daughters, Karen McClellend and Shanetta Vazent, whom he cherished as his own.

Murphy was preceded in death by his parents, Superintendent Donnie Aaron Jr. and Dora Jean Reddick Aaron; his beloved son, Murphy Joe Aaron Jr. (“MJ”); two brothers, Billy Wayne Beard and Carl Lewis Rayborn Beard; and three sisters, Patricia Aaron Williams, Flora White, and Diane Robinson.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Wanda Aaron; his brothers, Matthew Aaron of Willow, California, Raymond Aaron (Lola) of Bakersfield, California, Donnie Ray Aaron Sr. of and James Edward Aaron both of El Dorado, Arkansas; and his sisters, Lena Jean Kincey of El Dorado, Arkansas, Linda Aaron Thompson of El Dorado, Arkansas, Jan Elizabeth Rochell (Lee) of El Dorado, Arkansas, Sarah Ann Stephens of El Dorado, Arkansas, Felesia Annette Billings (Jeffery) of El Dorado, Arkansas, Bonnie Faye Williams of Fort Worth, Texas, Angela Janelle Russ of Camden, Arkansas, and Martha McMurrian of Little Rock, Arkansas.

He also leaves behind his loving daughters, Karen (Charles) McClelland of El Dorado, Arkansas, and Shanetta (Dennis) Vazant of Camden, Arkansas; his cherished grandchildren, Makayla Aaron, Makiyah Aaron, Jeremy Green, Randy Taylor, Marcedis Govan, and Omari Wilbourn, all of El Dorado, Arkansas; and his precious great-grandchildren, Jeremiah Green, Kyleigh Dixon, and Kenneth Dixon Jr., also of El Dorado, Arkansas.

Murphy’s memory will be especially treasured by his special nephew, Brandon Williams; his mentees, Darnarius Jackson and Deshaun Mims; his special aunt, Virginia Brock; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.