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FRANKLIN – Deaconess Shirley Murphy went home to be with the Lord on March 19, 2024. She was born Aug. 13, 1930 in Southampton, Virginia to the late Robert “Glennis” and Dora Eley Bynum. She was ed

ucated in the Southampton County Public School system. Deaconess Murphy was employed for over 40 years before retiring. After retirement, she worked as a volunteer in the community for the local hospital and nursing home. Her love and commitment to Christ and the church expanded over 60 years. She fulfilled the roles as Deaconess and Usher. Deaconess Murphy’s ministry to others was evident by her willingness to help with various church activities. She participated in several ministries and committees like the Willing Workers and Usher Ministries, including the Missionary and Beautification committees. She assisted with decorating the church during special events for the Pastor and First Lady. Supporting others was her top priority. Deaconess Murphy spent her time giving love and encouragement to family and friends, playing cards (Uno) with her special grandbaby Whitney, and watching her favorite game shows (Jeopardy and Family Feud). She was a living example of Hebrews 6:10: “For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” Deaconess Murphy was married to Jessie Murphy Sr. for over 60 years until his passing in March 22, 2016. She was preceded in death by six brothers: James Bynum, Edward Bynum, Robert Bynum, Jr., Herbert Bynum, Raymon Bynum, William Bynum; five sisters: Willie Mae Council, Catherine Boyd, Betty Bynum, Annie Crawford, Jacqueline Picot-Bell.

She leaves to cherish her memories, one daughter, Audrey; three sons, Melvin (Georgia), Jesse Jr. and Garry

(Linda); one sister, Cynthia Claude, two sisters-in-law, Marie (Ronald) and Anna; nine grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, family and friends. Deaconess Murphy was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, great-great-grandmother, sister and friend. Her devotion to her Pooh-Baby, Whitney and her dear friend and caretaker, Jeri, exemplified the

love of Christ. Deaconess Murphy has run and finished the race. She has endured the pains of this temporal life, now she has stepped into God’s ultimate reality. We pray her transition was a glorious one as she rests in her eternal home.