Donald Ray Murphy

Donald Ray Murphy, age 82, passed away peacefully surround by loved ones on June 27, 2025, at ECU Health in Greenville, NC.  He was born on April 10, 1943, to Grainger and Etta Murphy, and was one of 13 siblings.

Donald, known affectionately as Daddy, Papa, and Granddeddy, leaves behind a legacy of hard work and love.  He is survived by his devoted wife Bonnie Murphy; sons, Donald Ray Murphy, Jr. (Junior) and wife Lori, Leighton Murphy and wife Victoria; grandchildren Ashley Basden and husband Jason, Declan Murphy, Angelina Murphy, Jack Lynch and wife Emily, and Dylan Norris; and great-grandchildren Jaxon, Hudson, Knox, and Noah; sister Evelyn Hall and brother Virgil Murphy.

Throughout his life, Donald wore many hats: farmer, mechanic, carpenter, and carpentry teacher.  In retirement, he found immense joy in his garden, cultivating world-class giant watermelons, pumpkins and a variety of vegetables that nourished his family and friends year-round.  An avid coon hunter, Donald cherished time spent outdoors with loved ones and his students, many of whom became lifelong friends. Donald Ray Murphy will be remembered for his kindness, his dedication to family, and his unwavering spirit.  His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held from 5-8 p.m. on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at Pink Hill Funeral Home.  Funeral service will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, June 30, 2025, at Pink Hill Funeral Home with burial following at Oak Ridge Memorial Park in Pink Hill.

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