Murphy Frank McGirt Jr.

Murphy Frank McGirt, Jr, 89, of Blairsville, Georgia, passed away peacefully at home on September 22, 2026.

Born on October 24, 1936, Murphy lived a life defined by service, dedication, faith, and compassion. He was known for his quick sense of humor, strong work ethic, remarkable expertise in his profession, and his willingness to help those less fortunate. Throughout his life, Murphy touched countless lives through his medical practice, community involvement, and devotion to family and friends.

Murphy was educated at Maxton Grade School and Maxton High School. He attended Hampden-Sydney College and Wake Forest University before earning his medical degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He completed his orthopedic residency at the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta, Georgia and later pursued a Sports Medicine Fellowship at Peachtree Orthopedics in Atlanta, Georgia.

Following his medical training, Murphy was drafted into the United States Army, where he proudly served as a Captain in the Third Field Hospital in Saigon, Vietnam. His military service reflected the same commitment to caring for others that would define his professional life.

In 1972, Dr. McGirt joined a private orthopedic practice in Kinston, North Carolina, where he faithfully served patients. Throughout his distinguished career, he was respected as an orthopedic surgeon, served as the Lenoir County Medical Examiner, and provided sports medicine care for student athletes at North Lenoir High School. His knowledge, skill, and dedication earned the respect of colleagues and gratitude of patients throughout eastern North Carolina.

A devoted member of the First United Methodist Church of Union County, Murphy's faith was an important part of his life. He found great joy in fishing, gardening, woodworking, traveling, attending church, and opening his home to family and friends. Whether sharing stories, teaching a skill, or lending a helping hand, Murphy made those around him feel welcomed and valued.

Murphy is survived by his beloved wife, Anita H. McGirt; his brother, George Harold "Hal" McGirt; his sons, Jonathan G. McGirt, Mitchell H. McGirt, Murphy F. McGirt III; his daughter, Megan O'Toole and her husband, Mike O'Toole. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Ellie McGirt, Louise McGirt, Flora McGirt, and Thomas Wiegand.

He was preceded in death by his father, Murphy Frank McGirt, Sr.; his mother, Sarah Blackwell McGirt; his sister, Sarah Ellen McGirt; his brother, Samuel McGirt; his daughter-in-law, Frederique McGirt; and his grandson, Asher G. McGirt.

Murphy's legacy is one of service, generosity, integrity, and love. He will be remembered not only for his accomplishments as a physician and veteran, but also for the kindness, wisdom, and encouragement he freely shared with others. His family and friends will forever cherish the memories they created together and the example he set through a life well lived.

The family is deeply grateful to Appalachian Dementia Care and Hospice and Murphy's caregivers for the kindness, comfort, and exceptional care they provided.

A Memorial Service honoring the life of Murphy Frank McGirt, Jr. will be held at First United Methodist Church of Union County in Blairsville, Georgia, on October 24, 2026, at 2pm.

Following the service, guests are invited to share stories, memories, and fellowship as they remember Murphy's warmth, generosity, sense of humor, and unwavering dedication to helping others.

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to First United Methodist Church of Union County in Blairsville, Georgia or a charitable organization of the donor's choice in Murphy's memory, continuing his lifelong commitment to helping those in need.