James Louis Murry, lovingly known by all as “Uncle Lou,” age 66, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at North Mississippi Medical Center following a brief illness.
Services honoring Lou’s life will be held on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. in the Memory Chapel of New Albany Funeral and Cremation Care, with Bro. Randy Hamilton officiating. Visitation will be held Monday afternoon from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service at the funeral home. Following the service, Lou will be cremated according to his wishes.
Born on June 28, 1960, to the late James Odis and Lillian Inez Coltharp Rhodes Murry, Lou was a lifelong resident of New Albany. He was a mechanic by trade and a member of Beulah Baptist Church.
To know Lou was to love him. Lovingly known as “Uncle Lou,” he had a personality that could light up a room and a heart that had plenty of room for everyone. He never met a stranger and was blessed with countless friends throughout his life. Lou was the kind of person people could count on—not only to lend a helping hand, but also to listen, laugh, and keep a secret. If Lou told you he would keep something to himself, you could trust him to do just that.
Lou was a true jack-of-all-trades and seemed to have a knack for figuring out just about anything. As a mechanic, he especially loved working on cars, with Chevrolet vehicles holding a special place in his heart. Whether he was turning a wrench, solving a mechanical problem, or simply talking about cars, Lou was happiest when he was working with his hands.
He also knew how to enjoy the simple things in life. Lou loved to grill and was always happy to spend time outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, watching westerns, and settling in to watch “The Andy Griffith Show.” But perhaps one of his greatest loves was NASCAR. Lou enjoyed both watching and attending races and proudly cheered for his favorite driver, Dale Earnhardt. After Dale’s passing, Lou continued cheering for Dale Earnhardt Jr. He loved his #3 and #8 cars and could talk NASCAR with anyone who was willing to listen.
But more than cars, NASCAR, hunting, or any of his many hobbies, Lou loved his family. He cherished the people God placed in his life and had a special way of making those around him feel like they belonged. His family will remember his laughter, his stories, his generosity, his willingness to help, and all those little things that made him uniquely Lou.
He was the kind of man who could fix almost anything, make friends wherever he went, and somehow always seem to know how to make people smile. His absence will leave a tremendous void in the hearts of those who loved him, but the memories he created will continue to bring comfort in the days ahead.
Those left to cherish Lou’s memory include his three daughters, Lillian Smith (Gene) of Myrtle, Jamie Murry, and Amanda Page, both of New Albany; one son, Timothy Page (Samantha) of New Albany; two sisters, Janie Malone and Shirley Rhodes (Johnny Riley), both of Tupelo; four grandchildren, Cody Hale, Kaylie Hale, Starrlyn Smith, and Cheanna Curry; eleven great-grandchildren; a special nephew whom he considered a son, Keely Rhodes; two very special nieces, Angelica Walters and Madison Grace Rhodes; and two special friends, Bro. Randy Hamilton and Lynn Page.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Stormmie Murry; and two dear friends, Theresa Haynes and Richard Hardin.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers include Cody Hale, Allen Hardin, Tim Page, Keely Rhodes, Gene Smith, and Joey Wommack.
Though Lou may no longer be here to share a story, work on a Chevrolet, cheer for his favorite driver, fire up the grill, or lend a helping hand, the love he gave and the memories he leaves behind will remain. His family and friends will carry a piece of Uncle Lou with them wherever life takes them, and he will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.
New Albany Funeral and Cremation Care invites you to share your memories of Lou and offer words of comfort and encouragement to the Murry family during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, Lou’s family kindly asks that donations be made to New Albany Funeral and Cremation Care to assist with his funeral expenses.
