A distinguished figure in American journalism who led major newspapers and survived a dramatic kidnapping has left an indelible mark on the industry.
As reported by The Independent, Reg Murphy, a veteran news executive whose career spanned leadership roles at prominent newspapers in Atlanta, San Francisco, and Baltimore, died at age 90 on Nov. 9 at his home on St. Simons Island, Georgia.
John Reginald "Reg" Murphy's journalistic journey began at the Macon Telegraph covering state politics before ascending to prominent positions at The Atlanta Constitution during the civil rights movement. His career would later flourish as he took on leadership roles at the San Francisco Examiner and the Baltimore Sun.
Murphy's influence extended beyond traditional newspaper journalism into new media territories. At the National Geographic Society, he played a pivotal role in implementing innovative technologies that expanded the organization's global reach across print and video platforms.
His reporting assignments took him across continents, from Russia and China to Japan and the Middle East. Throughout his career, Murphy remained steadfast in his commitment to journalistic integrity and truth-telling.
Former colleague Art Harris, who worked with Murphy at both The Constitution and in San Francisco, praised his leadership style. Murphy's approach to management was marked by a gentle yet decisive manner that inspired those around him.
The most harrowing chapter of Murphy's career unfolded in 1974 when he was kidnapped while serving as editorial page editor at The Atlanta Constitution. His abductor, claiming affiliation with a militia group, demanded a $700,000 ransom.
Murphy later recounted the terrifying experience in Golf Digest, describing how a seemingly innocent request for help with a heating oil donation turned into a two-day ordeal. During his captivity, he was forced to wear a blindfold and endured being confined in a car trunk.
In his own words, Murphy revealed how golf helped him cope with the trauma. He said:
Journalism is, in my mind, sacred. It is a sacred trust to tell the truth and to try to give people enough freedom to be able to find the truth and then to pursue it.
Murphy's passion for golf evolved into significant involvement with the United States Golf Association, where he served as president from 1994 to 1995. His contributions to the sport were celebrated by USGA CEO Mike Whan, who noted:
Like so many USGA presidents before him, and since, Reg gave his time and expertise to help leave the game of golf even better. The USGA, and the people who play and love the game of golf, are better off because of Reg's commitment, passion and leadership.
His dedication to education remained strong throughout his life. Murphy maintained close ties with Mercer University, serving five terms on its Board of Trustees. The institution honored his achievements by naming its Center for Collaborative Journalism after him.
Reg Murphy, who passed away on Nov. 9 at his Georgia home, leaves behind a legacy that spans crucial decades in American journalism. From surviving a politically motivated kidnapping to leading major newspapers and advancing media technology at National Geographic, his career exemplified dedication to truthful reporting and journalistic excellence.
His influence continues through the institutions he helped shape, from the renamed Reg Murphy Center for Collaborative Journalism at Mercer University to his contributions to golf through the USGA. Murphy's commitment to journalism as a "sacred trust" remains a guiding principle for future generations of reporters and editors.
