St. Simons Island Mourns the Loss of Journalism Pioneer Reg Murphy at 90
St. Simons Island, Georgia, is in mourning as the community remembers John Reginald “Reg” Murphy, a gentleman of journalism and golf who passed away on November 9, 2023, at the age of 90. A deeply respected figure in the world of news, Murphy’s life was a blend of dedicated service to reporting, an indelible impact on the field of journalism, and a passionate involvement in the game of golf.
A Life of Resilience and Achievement
Born and raised in Georgia, Murphy started his illustrious career at the Macon Telegraph where he covered state politics. He eventually escalated to prestigious roles, including serving as editor and publisher of the San Francisco Examiner and publisher of the Baltimore Sun. His remarkable journey took him from the heart of Georgia politics to the dynamic streets of San Francisco during the whirlwind of social change in the 1970s.
Murphy was more than just a reporter; he was known for his extraordinary ability to inspire those around him. As fellow reporter Art Harris noted, “That was his magic. He inspired people by building them up. He was a gentleman and a gentle persuader.” Murphy’s wisdom and approach strongly shaped his newsroom environments, earning him a reputation for being calm, collected, and always open to discussion.
The Kidnapping That Made Headlines
In an unexpected turn of events, Murphy’s life took a dramatic twist in 1974 when he became the target of a politically motivated kidnapping for a staggering $700,000 ransom. A man, posing as a good Samaritan, tricked Murphy into his car, where the unthinkable happened—he was taken hostage at gunpoint. “Mr. Murphy, you’ve been kidnapped,” the kidnapper told him. The ensuing ordeal left Murphy trapped in a car trunk for hours before being released two days later.
His heroic escape and the subsequent national headlines marked a turning point, not just in Murphy’s life but also in highlighting the risks faced by journalists. The coverage of his kidnapping and recovery sent shockwaves throughout the nation, echoing sentiments that journalism was indeed perilous yet deeply essential.
A Passion for Golf
More than just a journalism mogul, Murphy had a soft spot for golf. His passion for the sport blossomed more extensively after his harrowing kidnapping experience. He often shared how the beautiful game helped him heal, both mentally and physically. His volunteer work with the United States Golf Association (USGA) began in earnest, holding positions including president in 1994 and 1995. His contributions to the sport were invaluable, with USGA CEO Mike Whan stating, “The USGA, and the people who play and love the game of golf, are better off because of Reg’s commitment, passion and leadership.”
A Teacher to Many
Education meant a lot to Murphy, who emphasized the importance of journalism in maintaining the democratic fabric of the community. Murphy was proud to attend Mercer University in the 1950s, frequently expressing gratitude for the foundation it provided him in the world of news. Remarkably, he served five terms on the Mercer Board of Trustees, tirelessly championing the next generation of journalists.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Mercer honored Murphy by renaming its Center for Collaborative Journalism as the Reg Murphy Center for Collaborative Journalism, ensuring that his legacy will guide future students in their pursuit of the truth.
A Legacy to Remember
With a career that spanned decades, Reg Murphy leaves behind a legacy that transcends his written words. His influence in journalism and golf will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations. As the community comes to terms with his passing, one thing is very clear: Reg Murphy was not just a journalist; he was a beacon of truth, determination, and inspiration.
