James E. Murray of Leland, NC entered eternal life on January 3, 2015. He was preceded in death by his mother, Thelma Murray Maynor and three siblings at a very young age. Jimmy is having an amazing reunion with family and friends that he hasn't seen in a long time. His spirit and the essence of his all encompassing love is carried on by the love of his life, Patsy; two daughters; 3 grandchildren; five siblings; and all the wonderful extended family relations and friends that were so very much a part of his life. From humble beginnings, he carved out a life rich in love and joy for his wife, his daughters and his grandchildren.

A tower of strength, Jimmy Murray shouldered many concerns throughout his years without complaint but always with a quick word of thanks to the good Lord for His many blessings. Family and friends knew that he would give his last cent to help anyone in need. He found joy in giving and each Christmas he tried to bring happiness to children who were less fortunate. He changed lives in a multitude of small ways. He was the George Bailey in his circle of life...going about doing good and impacting lives along the way without any real knowledge of the profound impact that he had on so many. If you wanted to hear a word of wisdom, you would grab a cup of coffee with Jimmy and hunker down for a long talk. He has left behind a legacy of love, true caring and integrity. He instilled a deep sense of honor and doing the right thing even if it wasn't always convenient or comfortable. By his example, his family learned the definition of faithfulness and the value of hard work. Jimmy devoted 26 years to Hughes Brothers Tire Company; owned and operated Murray's Hauling and Mel's Milestones of Development Center. Not to mention his uncanny ability to find the best collectible at the best price in the southeast.

Jimmy is survived by his beloved wife, Patsy McLellan Murray; his daughter, Jackie Murray Rosner and her husband, Jürgen of Overland Park, KS; and their children - Philipp Rosner and Marisa Rosner; his daughter, Melodie Murray-Davis and her husband, Jeff of Leland, NC; and their children - Murray Davis and Alex Davis; his siblings - Betty Hurley; Ralph Murray; Patsy Harrell; Bobbie Maynor; and Jackie Maynor and their spouses; Pam McLellan King; and all the nieces, nephews, family and friends too numerous to list but not forgotten. He is also survived by his special little friend and constant companion, Spike.

Jimmy's family rejoices in the knowledge that he is with Jesus. In celebration of his life, the family will receive friends on Friday, January 9, 2015 at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. A funeral service will be held at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, January 10, 2015. Rev. Robert E. Lee officiating. Interment will follow in Oleander Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jimmy's memory may be made to the Lower Cape Fear Hospice, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401 or http://www.hospiceandlifecarecenter.org.

Quinn McGowen Funeral Home, 315 Willow Woods Drive, Wilmington NC 28409 910-794-7171Visitation 5:30 - 7:30 PM Friday, Jan. 9, 2015 at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home. Funeral 11AM Saturday, Jan. 10, 2015 at the funeral home. Interment Oleander Memorial Gardens.