Roper Funeral Home and Crematory
206 Holly St
Jasper, GA 30143
(706) 253-7500
(706) 253-0040
www.roperfuneralhome.com
John Raymond Murray, born on September 12, 1928, in Summerland, Mississippi, peacefully passed away on October 4, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and faith. He was the beloved son of Dewey Harrelson Murray and Lou Ella Jones Murray.
John is survived by his son, John Philip Murray (Melinda) of Germantown, TN, and his daughter, Diane Murray Sweat (Charles). He was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Marion Ruth (Bonnie) Sanders Murray, and his daughter, Kathryn Ruth Murray Sarzen(Chris). He also mourns the loss of his sister, Billie Rose Murray Ainsworth, and his brother, Dewey Gerald Murray.
John's family extends to his grandchildren: Grayson Elizabeth Murray Schmid (Josh), Sanders Harrison Murray, Daniel Raymond Sweat (Elizabeth), John Sandlin Sweat, David Edward Sweat, Michael David Gerald Sarzen, Christopher Philip Emanuel Sarzen, and Natalie Diane Kathryn Sarzen. He also delighted in the joy of his great-granddaughter, Everett Murray Sweat.
A proud graduate of So So High School, John went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Mississippi State University. He served his country as a Sergeant 1st Class in the 52nd Field Artillery Battalion of the 24th Infantry Division during the Korean War, an experience that shaped his character and sense of duty.
John dedicated 38 years to Southern Bell (now AT&T), retiring as Chief Financial Officer of forecast operations. His professional life was marked by integrity and commitment, traits that endeared him to his colleagues.
A devoted Christian, John's faith was central to his life. He was baptized in a creek during a solar eclipse and was an active member of several churches, including Summerland Baptist Church and Peachtree Presbyterian Church (where he served as a Deacon). He also served at Fellowship Presbyterian Church in Jasper, GA, where he held positions as a trustee, elder, and disbursing treasurer. In 2022, he joined Pine Mountain First United Methodist Church in Pine Mountain, GA, further deepening his commitment to his faith.
A Military Honors burial will take place at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA, on November 29th. A memorial service celebrating John's life will be held at Pine Mountain First United Methodist Church on November 30th at 11 AM.
Gifts may be given to The Pastor's Pantry at First United Methodist Church of Pine Mountain, GA or the music department of Fellowship Presbyterian Church, ECO in Japer, GA.
John Raymond Murray will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
Arrangements are entrusted to the Staff of Roper Funeral Home and Crematory.