Michael Lee Murphy

DAPHNE, AL – Michael Lee Murphy entered fully into the presence of the Lord on Wednesday, July 12 surrounded by his adoring wife, children and grandchildren. Mike was born on June 26, 1946 in Moreland, Georgia and recently celebrated his 77th birthday.

A proud alumnus and member of Sigma Pi fraternity at the University of Georgia, Mike graduated in 1968, carrying with him a passion for life that would shape his every step. He brought the same unwavering dedication to his marriage, his family and the community of Daphne, AL.

Mike met the love of his life, Glenda Lightsey, at the University of Georgia, and for 55 years they shared an unyielding love and commitment that was a source of inspiration to their far-reaching circle of friends and family. They danced together, laughed together, cooked, gardened and cheered on the Georgia Bulldogs, always together.

After Mike graduated from the Terry School of Business at UGA and afterward began his lifelong career in the food service business. In 1980 he founded Institutional Sales South food brokerage company and after retirement he continued participating in the food service business as a consultant until present. Mike always believed work was a means to an end. His true purpose in life was being a loving husband, devoted father, and serving his Church as elder, usher, and on many committees. He approached these roles with the same dedication and earnestness he poured into his profession. His colleagues and clients knew him as a man who loved his work, but his family knew him as a giant of a man with an even bigger heart.

We take solace in knowing that he has found eternal peace, surrounded by the love of those who passed before him. Mike is preceded in death by his parents Daniel and Louise Murphy, his sister Molly Wagner and his father-in-law Shannon Lightsey. Mike is survived by his wife Glenda, cherished mother-in-law Anna Lee “Bobba” Lightsey, three children Shannon Murphy (Sarah), Laura Murphy Howard (John), and Chase Murphy (Jackie); 8 grandchildren Brock Murphy, Will Murphy, Drew Murphy, Hayes Murphy, Kate Murphy, John Randall Howard, Anna Howard, and Penelope Murphy.

Let us honor Michael Murphy’s memory the way he would want us to: with laughter, love, and a grateful heart for the privilege of having known him. In the words of his childhood friend, celebrated author Lewis Grizzard, “Life is like a dogsled team. If you ain’t the lead dog, the scenery never changes.” Mike was the lead dog in so many lives and forever changed the scenery for the better.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Trinity Presbyterian Church.