Obituary: Kenneth West Murphy

Kenneth West Murphy, age 80, of Kinston, NC, a beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2025, in Wilmington, NC, following a brief illness. He was born on December 13, 1944, in Kinston, NC, to the late Rev. Emmett and Ethel Murphy. He was the tenth of twelve children in the Murphy family.

Kent is survived by his four daughters, one son, and several grandchildren, as well as two sisters and one brother: daughters: Kim Fakhoury of Wilmington, Rhonda Greene (Michael) of Fuquay-Varina, Brooks Murphy of Greenville, and Sydni Murphy of Kinston; son, Bryce Murphy of Kinston; grandchildren: Kelsey Fakhoury, Bridgette Greene, Tyler Greene, Mia Denton, Phoenix Carter, Angel Carter, Armani Taft, and Eliha Winter; sisters: Faye Moore of Kinston, Arlene Ferren of Winterville; brother, Buster Murphy of Kinston; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Kent had a diverse and fulfilling career. Kent enlisted in the United States Army, where he was stationed in Germany. While serving, he earned his GED and continued his education. After his time in the Army, Kent attended East Carolina University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Work with a minor in Economics and Finance. He was also active in the Army National Guard for several years.

In his professional life, Kent was the Director of the Kinston Health Department for numerous years. Later, he became part-owner of several local beach clubs in Kinston, including Michaels, the Bamboo Room, and Fours E-nuf. He was still working part-time at the La Grange landfill at the time of his passing.

Kent was known for his love of dancing, particularly the Shag, and his passion for beach music. He enjoyed cooking his famous Chinese rice and grilling barbecued meals, often bringing joy to family and friends through his culinary skills.

A memorial service will be held at Howard and Carter Funeral Home in Kinston, NC, on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at 3:00 PM, with a visitation to follow.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Kent's memory may be made to The Lenoir County SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), 2455 Rouse Road, Kinston, NC 28504.

Arrangements entrusted to Howard-Carter Funeral Home, Kinston.