Gov. Rick Snyder lowers flags to honor former Rep. Michael C. Murphy

Monday, Jan. 12, 2014

LANSING, Mich. - Gov. Rick Snyder today ordered U.S. flags within the state Capitol complex and on all state buildings to be lowered to half-staff on Wednesday, Jan. 14, in honor of former state Rep. Michael C. Murphy, who died on Sunday, Dec. 28 in Washington, D.C.

"Mike's dedication to public service as a state representative and community leader has improved the lives of Michiganders across our state," Snyder said. "My heartfelt thoughts and condolences are with his family, friends and community."

Murphy was elected to the state House of Representatives in 2000 and served three terms. While in the Legislature, he served on the Family and Independent Agency and Family and Children's Services Appropriations Subcommittees. He was also a member of the Transportation Committee. Prior to his time as a representative, he was a member of the Lansing City Council. Murphy was an active civil rights leader in the Lansing community, and worked as a pastor at congregations throughout Lansing and in Washington, D.C.

Murphy earned his bachelor's degree from DePaul University and his master's degree from Michigan State University. He was also was a graduate of the Chicago Theological Seminary.

A funeral service will begin at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14 at the Tabernacle of David church in Lansing. An earlier service was held on Saturday, Jan. 10 at the People's Congregational UCC in Washington D.C.

This flag order is in accordance with Executive Order 2013-10. Michigan residents, businesses, schools, local governments and other organizations also are encouraged to display the flag at half-staff. Flags should be returned to full-staff on Thursday, Jan. 15.

When flown at half-staff or half-mast, the U. S. flag should be hoisted first to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff or half-mast position. The flag should again be raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day.