September 22, 2026, 78, Goldsboro – Clifton Lee “Cliff” Murphy, 78, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Lenoir County on April 17, 1948, he was the son of the late Z.V. Murphy, Jr. and Charlotte West Murphy.
Cliff was a man who believed in the value of hard work, the importance of family, and the blessing of serving others. He began his career with Greene Engineering before joining Herring-Rivenbark, Inc. in Kinston, where he served as a project manager for 28 years. Even after retiring from his full-time position, Cliff continued working with the company on a part-time basis. Work was more than a career for him; it was simply part of who he was. He had a tremendous work ethic and was happiest when he was busy, solving problems, accomplishing a task, and knowing a job had been done right.
That same attention to detail followed him home, especially when it came to his yard. In recent years, Cliff took great pride in keeping his grass and property looking just right. He could often be found on his John Deere zero-turn tractor, carefully manicuring his yard and making sure everything was exactly as he wanted it.
Cliff also cherished the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, passions he developed as a young man and later shared with his son, Patrick. Some of life’s greatest memories were made in the outdoors, passing along not only the skills of hunting and fishing, but also the lessons, traditions, and time together that made those moments special.
His faith was another cornerstone of his life. Cliff was a devoted member of Bethel Fellowship Church, where he faithfully served in many ways. He especially enjoyed preparing food for the church’s annual dinner theatre, helping bring together the talents of the church and community. Whether working behind the scenes, lending a helping hand, or simply being present, Cliff found joy in serving his church family.
Above all, Cliff treasured his family. He leaves behind a legacy of love, faithfulness, hard work, and service that will continue through those who knew and loved him. His family will remember not only the things he accomplished, but the steady presence he was in their lives—the man who worked hard, loved deeply, served faithfully, and found satisfaction in taking care of the people and things that mattered most to him.
Cliff is survived by his loving wife, Donna Pelletier Murphy; his son, Patrick Murphy and wife, Joni; his sister, Carol Murphy; and his step-son, Logan Shivar and wife, Charlotte.
He was preceded in death by his beloved grand-dog, Emme.
A service to celebrate Cliff’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 27, 2026, in the sanctuary of Bethel Fellowship Church, with Pastor Joseph Franklin officiating. Following the service, the family will greet friends in the sanctuary.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Cliff’s memory to Bethel Fellowship Church.
Cliff’s life was measured not simply by the years he lived, but by the work of his hands, the faith he shared, the family he loved, and the lives he touched along the way. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
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