George Richard Murphy

The Honorable George Richard Murphy, born on November 28, 1946, in Dunn, North Carolina, at Betsy Johnson Memorial, passed away peacefully on Memorial Day, May 27, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Funeral Services will be 3:00PM Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the American Legion Banner Post 109 Building in Benson. Entombment will follow in Roselawn Cemetery with Military Honors by the Vietnam Veterans of Johnston County. The family will receive friends from 6:00PM to 8:00PM Friday, May 31, 2024 at Rose & Graham Funeral Home in Benson and other times at the home. 

 George leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and love. Raised in East Meadow, Long Island, New York, George attended Chaminade High School and graduated in 1964. He then pursued higher education at Campbell University, graduating in 1968. George was drafted to serve his country shortly after completing undergraduate school at Campbell University during the Vietnam Conflict. 

Enlisted with the 3/18 Artillery Americal Division, George served with distinction and was awarded the Bronze Star for valor. His active military service spanned from 1968 to 1970. Upon returning home, George continued his education at Wake Forest University, earning his Juris Doctor degree in 1973. Admitted to the North Carolina State Bar in 1972, he maintained his license for an impressive 50 years. 

George's legal career began as an Assistant District Attorney, after which he went into general practice. From 2002 to 2008, he served as a District Court Judge for Johnston, Harnett, and Lee Counties. His commitment to justice and his community was evident throughout his career. 

Later in life, George was honored to serve as Commander of the American Legion Banner Post 109, where he played a key role in establishing the Benson Veterans Park, a testament to his dedication to fellow veterans. 

George was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Phyllis Murphy of Benson, NC; his parents, Richard and Geraldine Murphy of Dunn, NC; his brother, Richard J. Murphy of Cary, NC; and his nephew, John Patrick Locklear of Belmont, NC. 

He is survived by his daughter, Stephanie Piner, and husband Keith, and their children, Anderson and Lilly Ann of Beaufort, NC; his son, Brandon Murphy, and wife, Christin, and their daughters, Mackenzie and Kennedy of Benson, NC. He is also survived by his beloved companion, Terry Rose; brother Raymond Murphy and wife Joan of Vancouver, BC, Canada; brother Pat Murphy and wife Beth of Raleigh, NC; brother Brian Murphy and wife Lori of Fayetteville, NC; and sister, Shelia Locklear of Waxhaw, NC. Additionally, he is survived by his sister-in-law, Cynthia Murphy of Cary, NC, and numerous nieces and nephews. 

George Richard Murphy's life was a testament to service to his country and community. He could be tough, gruff, and persistent, but on his gentle side, he loved being “Papa” to his grandkids. He went all in for Christmas. He collected trains and loved riding the real ones. His legacy will live on through his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers; memorials may be made to the American Legion Banner Post 109, P.O. Box 153, Benson, NC 27504.