Murphy Sewing and Vacuum – a family-run business that has served the community for more than 80 years – is closing its doors. Owners John and Earlene Docimo, alongside Earlene’s daughter Britney Kirtley, announced the decision as they prepare to enjoy retirement and focus on their family.
“This has been a great run,” Earlene said. “We’ve met so many wonderful people and been a part of something special that brought the community together.”
Founded in 1943 by Richard “M.R.” Murphy as a door-to-door sewing machine repair service, the business officially became Murphy Sewing Machine Company in 1945. M.R. later established a storefront on the corner of 7th and Triplett Streets, where the shop remained for decades before moving to its current location at 4th and Triplett Streets in 2003.
John Docimo is a Chicago native who joined the business in 1981 at the encouragement of M.R.’s son, Mort Murphy. Docimo’s knack for repair work and dedication to customer service eventually made him the face of the store. He officially took over the business in 2015, along with Earlene and Kirtley, marking the third and fourth generations to lead the family enterprise.
“Murphy’s has always been about family values and providing a personal touch,” John said. “Our customers know they can count on us for quality products and reliable service.”
The business specializes in high-quality sewing machines and vacuums, including American-made brands such as Simplicity and Riccar. The store also installed central vacuum systems and maintained a service-first philosophy that kept customers coming back.
Earlene said business surged during the COVID-19 pandemic as families sought new hobbies like sewing. Earlene noted that many grandmothers were teaching their grandchildren to sew, and the shop’s live customer support became invaluable for beginners and experienced users alike.
“We have a card catalog that dates back to the 1950s,” Kirtley said. “They were used to log machine sales and in-store financing, back when your word and a handshake really meant something.”
Kirtley added that sometimes, customers will come in and tell them they remember their relatives purchasing something at the store several years ago.
“The handwritten records are a nice reminder of those who came before us,” she said.
Despite their success, the Docimos felt the time was right to step away. The store is currently holding a liquidation sale and will close as it depletes its inventory. They plan to maintain ownership of the building and eventually partner with a relative on the use of the facility.
“Our hearts are full as we close this chapter,” Earlene said. “We’re looking forward to spending more time with our grandkids, continuing mission work, and simply enjoying life.”
For Kirtley, who has worked at Murphy’s for 15 years, the closure is bittersweet.
“This place has provided for so many families and connected us to incredible people,” she said. “It’s hard to say goodbye, but I’m grateful for all the memories.”
Customers can visit the store to take advantage of sale prices on sewing machines, vacuums, and other products.
“It’s been an honor to serve Owensboro for so long,” John said. “We’ll always cherish the relationships we’ve built and the legacy of this business.”
