Esther Michelle (Murphy) 'Punkin' Thomas

Memories are treasures no one can steal. Death is the heartache nothing can heal.

Some may forget you now that you are gone, But we shall remember you no matter how long.

    In humble submission to God’s will, we pause today, to pay tribute to the life, love and spirit of Esther Michelle Murphy Thomas, who was a loving mother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend. She was one who loved unconditionally, and not only nurtured her family, but enriched the lives of many.

     On Saturday, March 20, 1954, a beautiful soul was born to the loving care of the late Johnny W. Murphy and Martha Darden Murphy in Seaboard, (Northampton County) North Carolina. ‘Punkin’, as we all affectionately called her, soon grew and developed into a sweet and compassionate woman, who met no stranger!

     ‘Punkin’ matriculated through the public schools of Northampton County; graduating from Gumberry High School - Class of 1972. Being reared in a Christian home, she accepted Jesus Christ, early in life, as her personal Savior and became a member of the Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church of Seaboard, North Carolina. It was there that her spiritual gifts were developed and love for God deepened. She was a faithful member of the church, serving as an Usher and in several other capacities, as long as her health permitted.

     As a long time resident of Seaboard, a town very near and dear to Punkin’s heart, she was employed with the former Village Market for many years. Afterwhich, she was employed with Liberty Commons Nursing & Rehabilitation Center of Weldon, Family Advantage Rehab of Pleasant Hill, K & K Home Health Care of Garysburg and she provided private duty personal care for many throughout her community.

     ‘Punkin’ applied the word according to the Apostle Paul in Galatians 5:14: “For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this you shall love your neighbor as yourself”. Not only was she loving, but was very giving of her time and her talents. ‘Punkin’ gained much respect in the community because she would always do anything she could, to help anyone. She was a true servant-at-heart, which led her to also serve as President of the Seaboard Civic Club.

     ‘Punkin’ was a beautiful person both internally and externally, and was known to many by her affection, genuine love and infectious smile, that could easily brighten anyone’s day. Her smile was accompanied by a warm and bubbly personality along, with a great fashion sense. In addition, ‘Punkin’ was known for her “Go-To-Meeting” hats. She was a sweet spirit, who carried a thankful heart for the things God gave her, whether big or small. ‘Punkin’ was also a woman who possessed strength and tenacity - enjoying life to the fullest! To know her was to love her and she was known by many throughout!

     How is it that we never saw your wings when you were here with us? When you closed your eyes and soared to the Heavens we could hear the faint flutter of your wings as you left. Your body is no longer on this side, your spirit here eternally. We see your halo shine. We close our eyes and see the multicolored wings surrounding us in my saddest moments and in our happiest times. ‘Punkin’, our angel, God has given you your assignment, always loving and now forever our angel. On Wednesday, March 9, 2022; while in the serenity of her home, ‘Punkin’ quietly slipped into eternal slumber and gained her wings.

     A golden heart stopped beating, Hard working hands at rest, It broke our hearts to see you go, God only takes the best... Our lips cannot speak how we love you, Our hearts cannot tell what to say, But God only knows how we miss you, In our home that is lonely on today. We who remain, stuck by the bitter pains of death, but satisfied at the promise made by God, that he will wipe all tears from our eyes are: one son, Derrick B. Thomas (Sheketia) of Weldon, North Carolina; three sisters, Edith A. Murphy of the home, Mary L. Broady of Garysburg, North Carolina and Lavern Love of Los Angeles, California; two nieces, DaNiesha M. Jacobs (Kenneth) of Durham, North Carolina and Teresa Brown of Landover, Maryland; great-niece, Cori M. Nelson of Durham, North Carolina; great-nephew, Rylee Billings of Landover, Maryland; a host of wonderful cousins and loving friends, who were valued as her family

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mrs. Thomas' tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

The Caring Team of T. L. Faison's Funeral Care, LLC is privileged to provide

"Professional Care, With Dignity & Integrity" 

to the family of Mrs. Esther Michelle 'Punkin' Murphy Thomas.

We ask that you unite with us in remembering the family in both thought and prayer. 

***TO ENSURE DESIRED FLORAL SELECTIONS AND A TIMELY DELIVERY,

PLEASE PLACE ORDERS THE DAY PRIOR TO THE FIRST VIEWING OF DECEASED***

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Esther Michelle (Murphy) 'Punkin' Thomas, please visit our floral store.