Watson-North Funeral Home is honored to be of service and ministry to the family of Elder James Murray, Sr.
Elder James W. Murray, Sr. gained his wings on Thursday November 10, 2022, peacefully in his home located in Nashville, TN.
Elder Murray was born in Rutherford County, TN to Lilian (Batts) and Ben Murray on September 5, 1949. He was a veteran of the U. S. Army. He had many occupations throughout his life: truck driver, city worker, school bus driver, but the one that he had the most passion for was being a minister and a pastor.
He accepted his calling in 1974, and began preaching at his family church located Rockvale TN, under Pastor Bernard Lester. This is where he 1st became acquainted with the Original Church of God and began his journey to becoming a pastor. His 1st church as a young minister was in Knobs, Creek TN where he remained until 1980 when he was selected as the pastor of The Original Church of God, Winchester TN (Currently- Holy Covenant Original Church of God). In 1997 the Lord led him to go to Pulaski, TN and there he pastored the Original Church of God Pulaski.
While pastoring at the Original Church of God-Winchester he was instrumental in the expansion of the church that is currently still in operation. He led in community service, drawing in the youth of the community and was able to lead them to the Lord. Later baptized 12 young people in a nearby creek; four of which were his children. Joining other community leaders and individuals from the church organized what was known as “the Franklin County Community Youth Choir.” This choir consisted of youth from every age, domination and walk of life. Traveling throughout the state singing and accompanying him during revivals, church anniversary services and National Convocation. He had so many other accomplishments while serving the Franklin County community. No matter the age, race or denomination, he was always spreading the word of God a true “Pastor of the People.”
In the National body of the Original Church of God he held the following positions: Assistant General and Assistant General Overseer. He worked diligently with leadership.
Elder Murray was blessed to have seven children, five of which were during his matrimony to Charlene D. Murray in 1973.
Daughter-Sonya Johnson and Son- James W. Murray, Jr. proceed their father in death. Elder James W. Murray, Sr. leaves to cherish his memories of his : Two daughters and Three sons: Vonderri Morris- Huntsville AL, Joshua Murray (Yasmine)- Atlanta GA, Tabitha Murray- Atlanta, GA, Jonathan (Vikki) Murray- Winchester, TN, Jermaine Murray- Nashville, TN. 14 Grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.
Six Sisters: Brenda Hamler, Beverly Wilson, Stephanie Dalton, Balerie McDanie, Diane Thompson, Three brothers two of which proceeded him in death: Steve Murray (deceased) and Ray Murray(deceased), and the only surviving brother Rodney Murray.
Spiritual sons Minister Cary (Rolanda) Holman and Pastor Lee (Tonya) Brannon, III. He had host of l aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins as well as friends.
Visitation will be on Saturday November 19, 2022 between the hours of 11 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.
Funeral service will be conducted from the Chapel of Watson-North Funeral Home on Saturday November 19, 2022 at 1:00 p.m.
Minister Cary Holman- Officiating
Elder Lee Brannon, III- Eulogy
