Governor Perdue Announces Passing of Former House Speaker Tom Murphy

ATLANTA – Today Governor Sonny Perdue confirmed the passing of former Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives Tom Murphy.  Speaker Murphy passed away at approximately 10 p.m. on Monday, December 17, 2007.  Governor Perdue issued the following statement:

“For more than a quarter-century, Speaker Murphy was a dominant figure in Georgia politics.  As a public servant, he always fought for the children of Georgia, our veterans and the disabled.  When he rose to speak, people listened, even if they disagreed with his politics.  And when he said he was going to act, he kept his word.  Speaker Murphy’s spirit will forever be part of the General Assembly and his love for our state should serve as an example to us all.  Mary and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Speaker Murphy.  His family and friends will remain in our thoughts and prayers.”

Further details on official state ceremonies will be forthcoming.  Governor Perdue has ordered flags on state buildings and grounds lowered to half-staff until sunset on the day of Speaker Murphy’s funeral.

Thomas B. Murphy of Bremen was the 69^th Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives.  In January 2003, he ended his twenty-ninth year as presiding officer of the House.  Born March 10, 1924, in Haralson County, Murphy graduated from Bremen High School.  He received his undergraduate degree from North Georgia College (1943) and his law degree from the University of Georgia (1949).

A Navy veteran, Murphy saw combat in action in the Pacific theater during World War II.   He was first elected to the House in 1961, serving as Speaker Pro Tempore from 1971-1973.  Murphy was elected Speaker for the first time January 14, 1974, and was reelected Speaker on the first day of each two-year session until 2003.  Murphy served as Speaker longer than anyone else in Georgia history, and at the end of his tenure, he was the longest tenured Speaker in the United States. 

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