Duard Franklin Murphy

Duard Franklin Murphy, 88 of Concord died Saturday night, June 10, 2023, at White Oak Manor in Charlotte after a period of declining health.

He was laid to rest beside his wife Billie Childers Murphy at Gilwood Presbyterian Church in Concord. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at Gilwood Presbyterian Church at 11 AM Saturday, June 17 with Rev. Charles (Chaz) Blasdell and Rev. Alan Buckner officiating. Family will receive friends after the service in the parlor.

Duard was born January 26, 1935, in Rowan Co. He was one of 13 children born to Ousie Lee and Sarah Pennell Murphy. In addition to his parents and 8 of his siblings Duard was preceded in death by his wife, Billie Childers Murphy, his infant daughter Lorie Ann Murphy, his daughter Amy Laura M. Welch and his daughter in law Beverly L. Murphy.

Duard was a lifelong area resident and proud veteran of the US Army serving in Korea in the late 1950’s. He was a big believer in education, having earned a Masters degree in Religious Education as well as a Ph.D in Religious Education and Administration. He served several churches in NC, Ky, and Texas through the years as a Minister of Education, Music and Youth, sometimes all three positions at once. Duard was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing.  One of his favorite things was to go flounder gigging at Ocracoke. He also enjoyed basketball and played it well into his forties.

Duard is survived by his son Michael P. Murphy of Charlotte, his sisters; Willaree M. McDuffie of Raeford, Gayle M. Stack of Kannapolis, Vivian Murphy of Mooresville and his brother Larry Murphy of Murrells Inlet, SC. Three Grandchildren, Drew Michael Welch of Wilmington, Benjamin Patrick Welch of Concord and Carly Erin Lee Welch of Palmer, Alaska. One Great Granddaughter, Athena Amy Welch of Concord, as well as numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

Online condolences may be left at www.whitleysfuneralhome.com and in lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Gilwood Presbyterian Church 2993 Odell School Rd, Concord, NC 28027