HAMPSTEAD — Jack Murphy Lea, 89, passed away peacefully at his home Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017.
He was born Oct. 29, 1928, to the late Joseph Hampton Lea Sr. and Julia Pearl Russ.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, J. Hampton Lea Jr., Albert O. Lea and Bert Lea Sr.
He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Jean Wood Lea; nephew and business partner for 43 years, Bert Lea Jr. (Barbara); office manager for 31 years, Linda C. Rouleau; three nieces, Judy Lea Lane (Charlie), Dorothy Lea Medlin (Ty) and Carolyn Lea; nephews, Albert Lea Jr. and John H. Lea; and many great-nieces and great-great nieces, nephews and cousins.
After his time served with the U.S. Army in the Korean War, Jack came back home to Hampstead. Jack and his brother, Bert Lea Sr., took over their father’s business, J.H. Lea & Sons Inc. where he worked endlessly until his retirement in December 2008.
He was a Master Mason of the Orient Lodge No. 395 for 68 years and was awarded a lifetime membership. He received his 32 Degree Scottish Rite and became a member of the Wilmington (Arab) Shrine Club for 66 years and a member of the Royal Order of Jesters. Jack recently received the Shriners Imperial Potentate’s Medallion Award. He was also a member of the BPO Elks No. 532 and many other organizations.
Jack’s genuine love and appreciation for family and community was always evident in his generosity for someone in need. He encouraged many young people by offering rewards for improved grades or stopping bad habits. He gave from his heart to help bring out the best in people.
The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 21, at Andrews Mortuary, Hampstead Chapel, followed by a graveside service at 1 p.m. at the Hampstead United Methodist Cemetery, located at 14840 Highway 17, Hampstead. Pallbearers for the graveside service will be James Tyer, Gregory Edens, Jerry Edens Jr., Preston King, Gary Lea and Dr. Joseph Barnes.
The family would like to thank all his doctors for their care, especially his friend, Dr. James Snyder.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to make a donation to the charity of your choice or to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, 403 East Front St., New Bern, NC 28560-4916.
Share online condolences with the family at andrewsmortuary.com.
