Murphy Ray, Jr.

Murphy was a follower of Christ—a true Christian. He had such compassion and empathy for others and always put them before himself in the most authentic way. He had a quiet strength and unmatched wisdom that made you feel swaddled in safety. Always driven to learn and apply knowledge in the most remarkable manner, he mastered carpentry very early on in his life and utilized self-taught, complex structural and electrical engineering skills. He created art through various techniques—drawing, painting and woodworking. Gardening, birdwatching, listening to music, and connecting with furkids rejuvenated both his spirit and his connection to God and nature.

He attended Indian River Junior College to obtain an Associates Degree in Anthropology and moved on to Clearwater Christian College for coursework in theology. Murphy worked for years as a Service Technician with electrical and HVAC systems; he traveled throughout Tennessee and across state lines daily servicing hospitals, restaurants and other industries.

He is preceded in death by his father, Murphy Ray Sr., and his mother, Martha Emerson Ray. Survivors include his wife, Linda Harrington Ray; his daughter, Talitha Christie Ray and son-in-law, Jon Hudson; his seven brothers, Charles Ray, Sam Ray, Paul Ray, Doyle Ray, Kenny Ray, Larry Ray, Carl Ray; his sister, Carol Ray Rutherford; and many other family members and friends.

He touched so many lives in a way that most people rarely experience. Life already feels so empty without him, but his memory will be celebrated through our endeavors to emulate his radiant kindness, love, and selfless actions.

Memorial contributions may be made to Paw Paw’s Homeless Ministry in care of St. Elmo United Methodist Church, Chattanooga, TN.

A celebration of life for Murphy will be held on 2 PM Wednesday, March 15th at Heritage Funeral Home in Fort Oglethorpe, Ga. with Pastor Walter Weikel and Pastor Juan Vallejo officiating. Interment to follow at Tennessee-Georgia Memorial Park.

The family will receive friends 12-2 PM Wednesday at Heritage Funeral Home and Crematory, Battlefield Parkway. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.