Andre Murphy

Whether it was crafting a news story or interviewing a celebrity, Andrè "Dre" Murphy left an indelible mark on the news business and the world of video production.

The 60-year-old Emmy Award-winning journalist passed away peacefully at his home on January 25, 2025 surrounded by his family after a prolonged fight with cancer. Andrè lived graciously and courageously until the very end.

Born on June 24, 1964, in Greensboro, North Carolina, to the late William and Doris Murphy, he was the youngest of 10 children. Growing up on a farm in Greensboro's suburb of McLeansville, his parents taught him the value of hard work and a deep love for family.

Andrè graduated from Eastern Guilford High School in 1982. Following in his brother's footsteps, he began studying engineering at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. He quickly changed his major to journalism, receiving his bachelor's degree in that program in 1992, because there were more cute girls in news media classes. Little did he know that working in the world of television news would be his calling.

Andrè moved to Atlanta in the early 1990's with a dream of seeing the 1996 summer Olympics firsthand. He never looked back. He spent the next 31 years as a video editor and producer for CNN where his work informed and touched millions of people around the world. He was not just an extremely talented editor with a deep commitment and passion for his work, but his dedication and work ethic were unmatched. He rarely boasted about his accomplishments, just performing his job made him happy.

In addition, Andrè served as a mentor and friend to hundreds of coworkers and colleagues over the years. For many producers, the long hours spent in the edit bay became therapy sessions, as Andrè was always one to lend an ear. He often cracked jokes and found humor in just about everything. CNN is also where he met the love of his life Bonnie, who he went on to marry in 2021.

Andrè was also known on the Atlanta music scene for the music videos he shot and produced with his business partners and friends Ilir and Mike.

Andrè stood out with his rockstar look -- long, beautiful dreadlocks, silver cross necklaces, a big watch and boots. At 6'1", he may have looked intimidating to some, but it was his easygoing and relaxed demeanor and his big heart that drew people to love him.

From Timbuktu to Tokyo, Andrè loved to travel for business and pleasure. Among his other passions were his enduring love for the Las Vegas Raiders, his comic books, Formula 1 racing, and Audi cars (although he often asked, "who got the keys to my Beamer?").

Andrè is predeceased by his parents William and Doris, brother John (Brenda). He is survived by his loving wife Bonnie, his brothers Thomas (Valerie), Stanley (Gloria), Elbert (Peaches), Howard (Ann) and Ronald (Shona), sisters Helen Bennett (Vince), Dara Murphy, Sharon Reams (Earl), his goddaughter Lara Noor, numerous nieces and nephews and his beloved dogs Gunner and Gracie.

Andrè touched the lives of those around him with his strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit. Despite facing the challenges of his illness, he remained a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who knew him. Andrè will live in our hearts forever.

A viewing will be held at A. S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home in Decatur, Georgia on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 2pm to 4pm and from 6pm to 8pm with services at 7pm. The family invites friends and loved ones to join them in honoring his life.

An intimate memorial service and celebration of life will be held on February 8, 2025, at Lakeview Memorial Park in Greensboro, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Andrè's honor to the National Foundation For Cancer Research online at nfcr.org or by mail to 5515 Security Lane, Suite 1105, Rockville, MD 20852.