James Franklin Murray Jr., 96, passed away Wednesday, July 27, 2022 in Windsor, Virginia. James was born March 19, 1926, in Harlan County, Kentucky to James and Mattie Murray.

James met his wife Charlotte Edith Hamilton in Yorktown, Virginia and were married in September 1948. Their union brought forth four children, Deborah White (Kyle), James F. Murray III (Pamela), Bonnie Murray, and Betty Murray. He loved and cherished Edith until her passing in March 14, 1996.

James is survived by his loving wife of 24 years, Dimitri Danielle Murray. In addition to his wife and children, he was survived by his grandsons, Paul Eareckson, and Gregory C. Thayer II. His great grandsons Gregory C. Thayer III, Hunter Thayer, and Colton Thayer and a host of nieces and nephews, cousins and loving friends.

James was a brick mason for over 60 years, and was taught this skill by his late father-in-law, Pinkney O. Hamilton. James mastered this skill and not only provided for his family, but donated his time and skills to build meeting and assembly locations for his loving Brothers and Sisters of the Jehovah’s Witness congregations, throughout the world. James was a very active member and an elder of the Smithfield, Virginia Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, August 13, 2022, in the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses at 15673 Scotts Factory Rd., Smithfield, Virginia with Elder Ronnell Charity officiating. The service can also be viewed on zoom. The zoom link will be available by request to the following email: gcthayer2@gmail.com