MOURNING THE LOSS OF JOHN REGINALD MURPHY

MOURNING THE LOSS OF JOHN REGINALD MURPHY

Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 37 (Tuesday, February 25, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 37 (Tuesday, February 25, 2025)] [House] [Page H773] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] MOURNING THE LOSS OF JOHN REGINALD MURPHY The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Carter) for 5 minutes. Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of John Reginald ``Reg'' Murphy, who unfortunately passed away last November. Mr. Murphy was a true Renaissance man who lived an extraordinary life guided by curiosity, integrity, engagement, and helping those in need. Mr. Murphy was raised in Gainesville and attended Mercer University, where he began his journalism career. Throughout his career, Mr. Murphy experienced success working in a variety of esteemed publications, including The Macon Telegraph and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Shortly after, he was chosen as a Nieman fellow at Harvard University in 1959. Mr. Murphy went on to serve as the editor and publisher of the San Francisco Examiner, and then he became the publisher and CEO of The Baltimore Sun. Throughout his life and career, Mr. Murphy stayed true to his morals and strong ethical compass. Mr. Murphy is survived by his wife, Diana; daughters, Karen and Susan; two grandsons; a sister; and three nieces and nephews. Mr. Murphy will always be remembered as a humble, approachable, gentle, and kind man. Recognizing Marlon Lawrence Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Marlon Lawrence, a custodian at Mary Lee Clark Elementary School in Camden County for being named the South Region winner in the Georgia Leadership Institute for School Improvement Hidden Heroes Campaign. This recognition celebrates unsung leaders in education whose dedication makes a profound impact on their schools and their communities. Marlon's hard work and commitment to maintaining a clean, welcoming, and inclusive environment have helped create a space where students and staff can thrive. This achievement reflects the collective teamwork at Mary Lee Clark Elementary where everyone works together to ensure student success. Principal Rika Dow has praised Marlon for his unwavering dedication and innovative approach, making him a model for others to follow. On behalf of the community and as his Congressman, I commend Marlon Lawrence for his exceptional contributions, and I thank him for the example he sets. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Marlon on this well-deserved recognition. Honoring the Life of Ms. Elizabeth Pryor Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Ms. Elizabeth Katherine Pryor, a civil rights activist, educator, and pillar in the Savannah community, who passed away last month. Ms. Pryor was an activist, joining the civil rights movement at a young age where she proudly participated in organized sit-ins, marches, and peaceful protests in the city of Savannah. After graduating from Savannah State College and Georgia Southern University, Ms. Pryor served as an educator in the Savannah-Chatham County Public School District for more than four decades. As a lifelong member of the NAACP, Ms. Pryor also was a strong proponent of voting rights. She was also among the activists who were instrumental in the renaming of West Broad Street to Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. Ms. Pryor served on the Board of Directors of the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum and was the former grand marshal for the annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Parade. Ms. Pryor is survived by her two daughters and many other beloved relatives and friends. Ms. Pryor will always be remembered for her dedication to advocating for justice, change, and equality. Honoring the Life of Joseph Rylon Wills, Jr. Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Joseph Rylon Wills, Jr., a man of faith, service, and dedication. Born in 1957 in Plant City, Florida, Joe was raised by his loving parents, Rylon and Gail. He was active in church and sports, demonstrating a commitment to faith and teamwork from a young age. In 1982, he married Stacy, his lifelong partner, and together they built a beautiful life, raising three wonderful sons, Patrick, Timothy, and David. Joe earned a business degree from Augusta University and had a distinguished career in hospitality and real estate. He worked at Augusta National Golf Club, Sea Island Company, and Brunswick Country Club. Joe later became a top producing realtor, specializing in luxury properties. A devoted church leader, Joe served as an elder and deacon, supporting organizations like Manna House of Brunswick and contributing to community events. He was known for his generosity, kindness, and willingness to help others, always offering a listening ear and thoughtful advice. Joe found joy in family, good friends, music, cycling, and long walks on the beach with his dogs. His legacy of service, faith, and love for his community will continue to inspire all those who knew him. ____________________