James Roy Murray, age 76, of Willard left this earthly life for his eternal home on Wednesday, December 5, 2012.

He was born January 22, 1936 in Pender County, son of the late Roy and Ethel Marie Holland Murray. He was also predeceased by his only brother, Hugh Murray.

Mr. Murray was a dedicated member of Willard Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church.

Surviving to cherish his memory is his loving wife of 56 years, Betty Kellum Murray of the home; sons, David Murray (Lori) of Burgaw and Richard Murray (Charlotte) of Willard; grandchildren, Jacob Daniel Murray, Hunter Straughn, Audrey Murray, Aaron Murray and Aidan Murray and numerous friends.

James was a devoted husband and loving daddy, granddaddy, brother and friend. He was a simple man who loved his Lord, his family and his church dearly. James loved the beauty of nature, the call of the forest and the river as he spent over 10 treasured years as scout master for Boy Scout Troop 51. To his children and grandchildren, James was "Papa" and was always there for each of them. This is not the end but just the beginning for now James is forever with his Lord. His family is grateful to God for his life and for your friendship, kindness and prayers.

Funeral service will be held at 3:00pm Sunday, December 9, 2012 at Willard Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church with Pastor Rodney Bonham and the Reverend Cecil Carter officiating.

Entombment will follow in Riverview Memorial Park Mausoleum, Watha.

Casketbearers will be Lantz Lanier, Bart Southerland, Reid Casteen, Barry Davis, Channing Lanier and William Moore.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 to 3:00pm, one hour prior the funeral service at Willard PFWB Church.

The family request that in lieu of flowers memorial gifts be made to Relay for Life, In Memory of James R. Murray, 2202 Wrightsville Avenue, Suite 111, Wilmington, NC 28403.

You may send your condolences to the Murray family by selecting our Memory Wall above.

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Wallace.