About Clay
Clay Murphy was born in Middlesboro, Ky 1960. His family moved to Tennessee, Georgia, and Mississippi before settling in Palatka, FL, in 1971.
After graduating from Palatka High School, Clay worked for the Sheriff's Office, first in Palatka, then in Jacksonville. In 1982 he joined the Florida Highway Patrol as a trooper, serving 26 years in that position.
Clay moved to St. Augustine in 1991 and met his wife Pamela married now 29 years. After retiring from the Florida Highway Patrol in 2008, Clay and Pamela had the opportunity to become franchisees of Sonny's BBQ. In addition to owning the restaurant, he is a co-owner and lead instructor at Ancient City Traffic School and Ancient City Motorcycle Training.
Clay and Pamela have three children and four grandchildren. Clay has been a member of the Family Worship Center Church since 1992, having served on their Safety team, Alter workers, Media team, and Prison ministry.
Work History
1979-80: Putnam County Sheriff's Office (Communications)
1980-82: Jacksonville Sheriff's Office (Communications)
1982-2008: Florida Highway Patrol (Trooper)
2009-2019: St. Johns County Sheriff's Office (Reserve Deputy)
2008-Present: Franchisee Sonny's BBQ for St. Augustine
Co-Owner lead instructor at Ancient City Traffic School
Co-Owner lead instructor at Ancient City Motorcycle Training
Awards & Service
Trooper of the Month for the State of Florida.
Several service Awards for Enforcement Activity
BBQ Pitmaster of the Year (Sonny's BBQ)
Several Philanthropic Community Awards
Board Chair Oakbrook HOA (2 years)
Board Chair Alpha-Omega Miracle Home (6+ years)
Board Chair Flagler College Saints Club (present)
Memberships
Republican Party
NRA Life Member
St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce
Airplane Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA)
Broken Spoke Club
Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA)
Florida Association of Retired State Troopers
American Association of State Troopers
Association of Mature American Citizens (AMAC)
