Murphy's department store honored as owners announce closure after nearly a century
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Summary
Mayor William Joyce presented a proclamation honoring Terry and Nancy Monroe and Murphy’s department store, which will close in 2025 after 99 years; owners cited retirement as the reason for closing and thanked the community.
Mayor William Joyce read a proclamation on June 2 honoring Murphy’s department store and owners Terry and Nancy Monroe as the downtown Stillwater business prepares to close in 2025 after nearly a century in operation.
The proclamation noted Murphy’s had served downtown for 99 years and highlighted the Monroes’ ownership since 1981 and Becky Moore’s long tenure as store manager since 1995. "I, William Joyce, mayor of the city of Stillwater, do hereby honor and express heartfelt appreciation to Terry and Nancy Monroe for their extraordinary contributions to the Stillwater community," the proclamation said.
Terry Monroe told the council the primary reason for closing is retirement. “The most important thing, I think, is that I'm gonna be 80 this year,” he said, adding that Nancy is older and long‑time staff were also ready for a change. He and Nancy thanked customers and the council for support over decades.
Council members praised Murphy’s as a downtown anchor and thanked the Monroes for their civic engagement and role in downtown revitalization. The proclamation was ceremonial and no formal council action was required.
