Krystal Leigh Murphy

Krystal Leigh Sellers Murphy, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home on September 30, 2026, after an extended struggle with health problems. Born on January 22, 1973, in San Diego, California, Krystal's journey was marked by a profound love for life and a relentless commitment to making this world a better place and to helping other people make their light shine.

Raised by her mother, Sandra Thomas, Krystal grew up with a deep appreciation for family and the simple joys of life. Her marriage to James Robert Murphy Jr., which spanned 30 beautiful years, was a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Jade Leigh Sellers Pontbriand and James Robert Murphy III, who were the light of Krystal’s life. Her granddaughter, Ava, brought her immense joy and pride, a pure ray of starlight to lighten her path and hold in her heart.

Krystal's life was a vibrant tapestry of passions and pursuits. After finishing high school in New Bern, she pursued higher education with determination, earning her Bachelor's degree from Eastern Carolina University and later, a Master's degree. She dedicated her career to caregiving, starting with a Nurse's Aid certificate and eventually becoming a licensed Substance Abuse Therapist. Krystal's work was not just a job but a calling, rooted in her deep belief in the intrinsic worth of every individual, no matter who they were or their particular circumstance.

Her love for art, nature, and animals was evident in all she did. Whether she was nurturing a garden, rescuing a stray animal, or camping under the stars, Krystal's hands-on approach to life was infectious. She was a force of nature, unafraid to tackle any task and always ready to stand up for the underdog. Her passion for justice and her ability to connect deeply with those around her left a lasting impact on everyone she met.

Krystal leaves behind a legacy of kindness, strength, and unwavering conviction. Her close friends, including "Aunt" Barbara Reyes and Jennifer and Kevin Quinn, will forever cherish the memories of her spirited conversations and her ability to always make her stance known, whether in defense of a friend or in the face of injustice.

A service to celebrate Krystal's remarkable life will be held on October 11, 2026, at 1:00 pm, at Cotten Funeral Home, located at 2201 Neuse Blvd, New Bern, NC. The family will receive friends following the service. The family invites all who knew her to come together in remembrance of her extraordinary spirit.

In honor of Krystal's memory, the family asks that you consider this meaningful passage: "Be ye kind, one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another" -- Ephesians' 4:32. In her spirit, please extend a hand of compassion, offer a word of forgiveness, or perform an unexpected act of kindness for someone in need.

Krystal Leigh Murphy will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her legacy of love and kindness will continue to inspire all who had the privilege to know her.

Cotten Funeral Home is honored to serve the family and friends of Krystal Leigh Murphy.