Mr. Arthur Crestwell Murphy, Sr., transitioned to his heavenly home on September 5, 2024, surrounded by his son, Mr. Arthur Jr., his daughter, Dr. Artesha Chardonnay Sharma, his stepson, Mr. Alfonzo Griffin III, and the mother of his children, Ms. Porsha Summers, with whom he was a devoted spouse and friend for over 25 years.
Born on May 29, 1946, in Leesburg, Georgia, Mr. Murphy. Sr., was a Navy Veteran, a professional chess player, an avid runner, and a proud “Pa-Pa” to his grandchildren.
He is preceded by his father, Mr. Clarence Clay Murphy, Sr., his mother, Mrs. Lottie Claude Murphy, and his two brothers, Mr. Clarence Clay Murphy, Jr., and Mr. John Evon Murphy.
Mr. Murphy, Sr. cherished his role as a father to his twins, Arthur Jr. and Artesha, and was a caring stepfather to Alfonzo and Felicia. He most enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren and watching them grow up.
Mr. Murphy, Sr., graduated from public schools in Georgia and then joined the Navy as a young adult. While in the Navy, he served in the Vietnam War, which resulted in a disability due to his service. Despite this, he went on to earn an associate’s degree and transferred to UC San Diego. A family move interrupted the completion of his degree, but he remained a lifelong learner. He enjoyed intellectual conversations on science, law, logic, and current events. Those who knew him appreciated his advanced intellect. He also had a fulfilling career as a professional chess player for over 40 years, achieving the status of Chess Expert by the International Chess Federation. His passion for chess led him to compete nationally and internationally, winning numerous tournaments and earning recognition in Chess Magazine over the years.
Mr. Murphy, Sr., will be remembered for his wit, lively conversations, unique humor, and passion for things and people important to him. He had a knack for connecting with people and making them laugh. His sense of humor, quick wit, and big heart will be greatly missed.
A Naval memorial service will be held at the National Cemetery in Phoenix, Arizona on September 19, 2024, at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Nevada Veterans Foundation on his behalf.
Mr. Murphy Sr. is survived by the mother of his children, Porsha; his children, Arthur Jr. and Artesha; his stepchildren, Felicia and Alfonzo; his sisters, Joneva Murphy and Annie Claude Murphy Outlaw; and his grandchildren, Amit Jr., Amaya, Aaliyah, Dante, Alicia, D’andre, Kaylen, Mason, and Carter, along with many more extended family members and friends.
Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.
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