Alex Murdaugh Parents. Meet Randolph Murdaugh III and Elizabeth “Libby” Alexander.
Richard “Alex” Murdaugh, the scion of a prominent legal dynasty in South Carolina, is currently facing trial for the double homicide of his wife, Margaret Kennedy Branstetter, and son, Paul Murdaugh, which occurred on June 7, 2021.
Once a highly regarded attorney, Murdaugh now finds himself in the unfamiliar position of being a defendant in the courtroom, confronting over 100 criminal charges, including murder, drug offenses, and financial fraud.
For nearly a century, the Murdaugh family wielded considerable influence over the legal landscape of Low Country, South Carolina, until recent controversies emerged.
The sensational nature of this case has led local media to christen it as the “trial of the century” in the state.
Despite initially claiming to be with his ailing parents on the night of the murders, Alex Murdaugh later admitted to fabricating his alibi.
However, he maintains his innocence and denies any involvement in the heinous crime.
Here’s what we know about Alex Murdaugh’s parents.
Are Alex Murdaugh’s Parents Still Alive?
Alex Murdaugh is the offspring of Randolph Murdaugh III and Elizabeth “Libby” Alexander, constituting one of the four siblings.
Randolph, a third-generation prosecutor, belonged to the Murdaugh family lineage, which has consistently produced solicitors for South Carolina’s 14th Judicial Circuit since 1920.
In following the footsteps of both his grandfather and father, Randolph earned a law degree from the University of South Carolina.
In 1986, he successfully campaigned for the position of solicitor at the Circuit.
Over his 20-year tenure as a solicitor, Randolph emerged victorious in all five of his uncontested elections and handled over 200 murder cases.
Retiring from his official role in 2006, Randolph continued his legal practice within his family’s renowned law firm in Hampton County.
Additionally, he served as a prosecutorial consultant to the Circuit, contributing to cases involving the court’s most dangerous and repeat offenders.
In recognition of his significant contributions to the state, Governor Henry McMaster awarded Randolph the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, in 2018.
Despite his ongoing dedication, Randolph’s health deteriorated in recent years, leading to a terminal illness.
Tragically, on June 10, 2021, Randolph passed away at his Almeda home due to natural causes, surrounded by his family.
His death occurred just three days after the tragic murders of his daughter-in-law and grandson.
At the time of his passing, Randolph was 81 years old.
Alex’s Mother, Elizabeth “Libby” Alexander, Is Still Alive
On the flip side, Alex’s mother, Libby, is currently 83 years old and battling dementia.
She has been grappling with Alzheimer’s disease for the last five years.
In November 1976, a false obituary about her surfaced in the esteemed regional newspaper, The State.
In her prime, Libby was a Columbia College alumna who served as a school teacher and librarian in Lexington County and Hampton County.
In addition to her role on the Children’s Foster Care Review Board, she held positions as the vice president of the Hampton County Country Club and a counselor at the Hampton-Varnville Methodist Youth Fellowship.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was Alex Murdaugh’s father?
Alex Murdaugh’s father was Randolph Murdaugh III.
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