Johnnie Murphy

Capt. Johnnie Louie Murphy, 67, of Davis, passed away on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at his home.

Johnnie spent his life working on the water, building a career defined by skill, steadiness, and long experience. He first worked as a shrimper, a livelihood that reflected a deep connection to coastal life and the demands of work on the water. In later years, he continued that path in dredging, bringing the same knowledge and dedication to a different part of the maritime trades.

For more than 20 years, Johnnie worked with Marinex Construction. That long tenure reflected a substantial chapter in his working life and spoke to his enduring commitment to his profession. His years in the industry were marked not only by the work he performed, but also by the knowledge he shared with others. He taught the younger generation the work he knew, passing along practical experience gained over many years and helping preserve the skills of his trade.

A celebration of life will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at First Baptist Church of Davis. A livestream of the service can be viewed at Noefs.net

He is survived by his wife, Cindy Murphy of Davis; son, Thomas Louie Murphy and wife, Nikki of Engelhard, NC; stepson, Josh Ballinger of Denver, CO; stepdaughter, Joanna Cole of Smyrna, GA; four grandchildren: Matthew Luke Murphy, James Daniel Gillikin, Abia Elizabeth Murphy, and Emilia Cole; two sisters, Jeannine Willis and husband, Perry of Sea Level; Martha Lewis of Reelsboro.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Louie and Selma Murphy; two sisters, Mary Willis and Bonnie Broome.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noefs.net

Arrangements by Noe Funeral Service, Inc. of Beaufort, NC.