Wilma Royal Murray, age 78, of Wallace went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Sunday, March 6, 2011 from New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

Born August 7, 1932 in Newton Grove, Mrs. Murray was the daughter of the late Jeff and Vada Jordon Royal. She was preceded in death by her husband and father of her children, James "Buck" W. Royal in 1986. Later she married Grady Murray who died in 1996. Also remembered are her two brothers, Wilton Royal and Maxton Royal.

Mrs. Murray leaves behind to cherish her memory, her loving children, James Leon Royal and wife, Gail of Burgaw, Gail Whaley and husband, Tim of Wallace, Renee Corbett and husband, Al of Atkinson and Jeffrey Royal of Watha; grandchildren, Rebecca Royal, Amber Royal, Scott Whaley, David Whaley and wife, Gwen and Jaime Davis; great grandchildren, Brookelyn Royal, Jon Michael Whaley, Kristyn Whaley, Aydan Whaley, Allyson Whaley, Cody Whaley, Jordyn Dwyer, Isabella Davis and Brewer Davis.

Funeral service will be 2:00 pm Wednesday, March 9, 2011 at the Wallace Pentecostal Holiness Church with the Reverend Robert J. Forehand officiating.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 pm Wednesday, one hour prior to the funeral service at the church.

Burial will follow at Wiley B. Royal Family Cemetery in Roseboro.

Casketbearers will be Jimmy Bowen, Luke Bradshaw, Elmer Hunt, Harvey Jones, Donnie Mobley and Thomas Smith.

Wilma was a devoted wife and caring mother, grandmother and sister who loved her family dearly. She was a woman of uncommon character, beauty and grace; and to those who knew her, "an instrument of God's love on this earth." She lived her life based on Christian principles and instilled Christian values in her children. Wilma will be remembered for her generous nature, her love for family and friends and her steadfast faith in God.

Memorial gifts may be given to Wallace Pentecostal Holiness Church, Missions Dept., PO Box 354, Wallace, NC 28466.

Condolences may be sent to the family below.