Terry Dayne Murphy

Col (ret) Terry Dayne Murphy (Murph) USAF age 85 made his final flight from New Bern (EWN) on February 26th. “Murph” was the beloved husband of Kathryn Lupton Murphy for 40 wonderful, adventurous years.

Born in 1938 in Bushnell, Illinois he was the son of the late Floy (Shaver) and Basil Murphy and brother of the late Max Burton Murphy. Murph is survived by his two daughters, Tiffany (Denver, Co) and Tara Saprony (Tom) Evanston, Wyoming and step-sons, Sean Lupton (Emily) Mt. Juliet, Tenn and Brian Lupton (Teri Jo) of Creswell, Oregon. The three grandchildren that knew him as “Gramps” are Lauren and Sydney Lupton and Joshua Setter. Surviving sister-in law, Rosalie Murphy in Bushnell, IL; brother-in law, Edward Winslow (Anne) in Stuart, FL. He will be missed by his Murphy Klan scattered throughout the country, plus long-standing Air Force friends.

A man of principle and character, the true gentleman, the Colonel served almost thirty and a half years in the Strategic Air Command, accumulating over 3,000 flying hours. Considered as a “pilot’s pilot” he felt that it was an honor to serve his country and often said that given the opportunity he would do it all over again. As a decorated career veteran, he was commended for his outstanding leadership and compassion towards his men. He was awarded numerous medals and honors including the following: Distinguished Flying Cross with two oak leaf clusters, Legion of Merit, Defense Superior Service, Meritorius Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Joint Service Commendation Air Force Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters, Vietnam Service with three bronze service stars.

A University of Illinois graduate, Murph joined the Air Force as a cadet, flying the C-7 Caribou in Vietnam and later the KC 135 series and KC-10. During the 70’s and 80’ he climbed the staff promotion ladder and achieved one of his proudest service positions being named the 22nd March AFB Riverside, CA Wing Commander in 1983. A unique final assignment was as the Silk Purse Chief, RAF Mildenhall, England U Comm which concluded a story-book star career.

Retired in 1989 to Alexandria, Virginia and later moved to New Bern’s Olde Towne community in 1991.He gave back to his neighborhood, not only with his handyman skills, but serving once again on their HOA board as Treasurer and Maintenance Chair constantly exhibiting his modest, humble and kind nature for over thirty years. Called to duty to join the NB Civitan membership during the mid 90‘s he was honored with awards and man of the year achievements. His motto acknowledged “work hard, play hard,” was evident throughout his entire life. He always introduced himself as “just” a farm-boy from Illinois to strangers.

A thoughtful honest evaluation and quiet demeanor while puffing on his pipe was often witnessed during family traditional slide shows, sipping his beverage of choice, flying or travel stories or opinion input when asked, secretly wanting to be a real cowboy. He was a New Bern Golf and Country Club member often seen “on the course” though his patience challenged, he enjoyed years of companionship. Lastly, his 1955 teal convertible Thunderbird always evoked a smile of pride as a CTCI member and officer of the Coastal Carolina T-Bird club.

He crossed the highest bar of life, enjoying a good joke. So raise a glass in his honor to a faithful soul.

Visitation will be on Friday, March 15th from 1pm to 2pm at Cotten Funeral Home. Followed by service with military honors and a celebration of life reception at New Bern Golf and Country Club. There will be a private family burial at Greenleaf Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Craven County Hospice.