James Murray

February 20, 1942 - July 30, 2020

James Murray, 78, of Lakeland, FL, formerly of Falconer NY, passed away Thursday July 30, 2020 at Good Shepherd Hospice House in Lakeland. He was born February 20, 1942 in Dunkirk NY to Robert J Murray and Helen Laughlin Murray. Best known as “Mr. Murray” to family, friends and colleagues, Jim will be remembered for his dry wit and sarcasm. He was an avid sports fan, played golf and always was searching for the next good book or puzzle. Jim graduated from Fredonia High School, Class of 1960. He had various jobs in his early years in The Dunkirk-Fredonia area. He was a milkman, stock clerk, newspaper carrier and grave digger to name a few. He went on to become a patrolman, then detective, for Jamestown Police Department where he proudly served for 20 years. He was a cop’s cop. He used these skills in his next career as Investigator for United Refining Co until his retirement in 2004. Jim was a loyal member of the Kendall Club, Jamestown Police Dept PBA, Lakeland Elks Lodge and Sons of the Legion. Survivors include his loving wife of 33 years, Alice Schwab Murray, sons Robert (Donna) Murray of Westfield, NY, Cliff (Susanna) Denis of Newton, KS, John (Aleida) Denis of New Bern, NC and James Murray of Jamestown, NY; daughters Denise (Glen) Klotz Of Dunkirk, NY and Pat Newberry of Silver Creek, NY; 11 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren, sister-in-law Linda (Don) Cutler, a niece and several nephews. In addition to his parents, he was pre-deceased by grandson, David Wilkes. Private graveside services will be held on Monday, August 3, 2020. Arrangements are by Gentry-Morrison Funeral Homes of Lakeland, FL. Condolences may be left at www.gentry-morrison.com. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Chapters Health Foundation Good Shepherd Hospice, 3010 W. Azeele St., Suite 120 Tampa, FL 33609