Sylvester Murphey Jr.

SIKESTON -- Sylvester Murphey Jr., 66, died March 3, 2017, at the Clearview Nursing in Sikeston.

Born Jan. 19, 1951, in Rich, Miss., son of Sylvester (Ida Mae) Murphey Sr. and the late Johnnie Mae Mitchell (Jimmie Lee Mitchell), he was a former heavyweight champion boxer, most notably during his boxing career, a match with boxing champion Duane Bobick. He was a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church.

Survivors include: two daughters; Carmen Murphey and Indra McGrady; seven brothers: Jerry Lee Mitchell, Jimmie Lee Mitchell, Robert Mitchell, Roylee Mitchell, Larry Murphey, Michael Murphey and Willie Murphey; six sisters: Murlee Pulley, Idell Bean, Sheila Mitchell, Johnnie Harris, Sophia Smith and Shirley Ann Marshall; and five grandchildren.

In addition to his mother and stepfather, he was preceded in death by one sister, Ruth Ann Mitchell.

Visitation is from 11 a.m. until time of service at noon Friday at the Cornerstone Baptist Church in Sikeston with Robert Mitchell, elder, officiating.

Burial will follow at Memorial Park Cemetery.

Driver Funeral Service of Sikeston is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences can be made at www.driverfuneralservice.com.