senate Concurrent Resolution No.35

Senator Shirkey offered the following concurrent resolution:

A concurrent resolution of tribute offered as a memorial for Raymond M. Murphy, former member of the House of Representatives and Senate.

Whereas, It was with great sorrow that the members of the Legislature learned about the passing of Raymond M. Murphy. He will be remembered as a dedicated public servant by his constituents in Southeast Michigan and the people of the state of Michigan; and

Whereas, A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Raymond M. Murphy attended the Detroit Institute of Technology and Wayne State University before beginning his long career serving the people of Michigan in many capacities. Politically active at a young age, he held a variety of leadership positions in the Democratic Party, was a former aide to Congressman Charles Diggs, and a 1961–1962 Constitutional Convention delegate, contributing to the landmark governing document of our state, the Constitution of the State of Michigan of 1963. A long-time officer of the court in Detroit, Raymond M. Murphy continued serving his community through long-standing involvement in a host of civic organizations and initiatives; and

Whereas, Raymond Murphy was first elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 1982 where he served until he was elected to the Michigan Senate in 1998. Over the course of two decades as a lawmaker, Raymond M. Murphy took on many leadership positions, including serving as chair of the Labor and Occupational Safety Committee, Assistant Democratic Floor Leader, and Speaker Pro Tempore. In the Senate, Raymond Murphy served on a variety of committees, including the Appropriations Committee. He served as Minority Whip from 1999 to 2000 and Assistant Minority Floor Leader from 2001 to 2002. In addition, he was a member of the NCSL National Black Caucus of State Legislators and the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus. To each of these responsibilities, Raymond M. Murphy brought an abundant understanding of the process and institutions of government, which provided an invaluable example for others to follow. Raymond M. Murphy also distinguished himself through his efforts on a variety of special projects, including the study and promotion of high-speed rail transportation; and

Whereas, Raymond M. Murphy leaves behind a legacy as a passionate advocate for the people of Michigan, and his dedication remains an example for those who have followed him into public service. He also will be remembered as a family man as he demonstrated a deep commitment to his wife, Lynette, and eight children. May his family take some solace that his efforts will long continue to enrich our state; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), That we offer this expression of our highest tribute to honor the memory of Raymond M. Murphy, a member of the House of Representatives from 1983 to 1998 and the Senate from 1999 to 2002; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the Murphy family as evidence of our lasting esteem for his memory.