Chris Murphy Obituary, Cause of Death – Passing at 58

The Summerville, South Carolina community is mourning the loss of Christopher John “Chris” Murphy, who passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at the age of 58. A devoted father, son, attorney, public servant, and friend, Chris dedicated his life to serving others with integrity, compassion, and conviction.

Cause of Death

Chris Murphy died peacefully following health-related illness, surrounded by love and support. His family has requested privacy as they grieve this profound loss.

Early Life and Education

• Born May 31, 1968, in Honolulu, Hawaii, son of The Honorable Patrick Joseph Murphy and Barbara Ann Murphy.
• Raised in Summerville, graduated from Summerville High School.
• Earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from The Citadel (1990) and a Juris Doctor from Mississippi College School of Law (1995).
• Served his country in the National Guard.

Legal Career

• Prosecutor with the First Judicial Circuit Solicitor’s Office (1996–1998).
• Senior Assistant Solicitor and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney on the Multi-Jurisdictional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force (1998–2001).
• Partner at Quattlebaum & Murphy, LLP (2001–2007).
• Founder of Murphy Law Firm, LLC (2007–2023).
• Partner and owner of Murphy Crantford Meehan until retirement in 2024.

Public Service

• Served on the Dorchester County Council (2003–2010), chairman in 2005–2006.
• Elected to represent District 98 in the South Carolina House of Representatives in 2010, serving continuously until his passing.
• Held leadership roles on the Agriculture Committee, Judiciary Committee, and Ways and Means Committee, among others.
• Served on the State Transportation Infrastructure Bank, SC Ports Authority Review and Oversight Commission, and Legislative Audit Council.

Community Involvement

• Founding member of the Summerville Miracle League.
• Active in the Summerville Rotary Club and Coastal Community Foundation–Dorchester County Fund.
• Dedicated coach with the Summerville Sertoma Club and Parks Field, mentoring his sons and countless young athletes.
• Lifelong supporter of The Citadel, proud of its traditions and community.

Family

Chris is survived by his sons Christopher Austin Murphy and Jackson Frederick Murphy; his former spouse, The Honorable Maite Murphy; siblings Patrick J. Murphy, Cindy da Silva, and The Honorable Michael H. Murphy, III; and his longtime friend Pennie Folden. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister Diane M. Murphy.

Funeral Service

• Visitation: Monday, July 27, 2026, 2:00–3:30 p.m. at James A. Dyal Funeral Home, Summerville, SC.
• Memorial Service: 4:00 p.m., followed by a reception at Summerville Country Club.
• In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SC Bar, P.O. Box 208, Columbia, SC 29202-0208, Memo: In Memory of Chris Murphy.

🕊️ Chris Murphy’s cause of death was health-related illness. He will be remembered as a devoted father, respected attorney, dedicated public servant, and beloved community leader whose legacy of service and compassion will endure.