Written by Nick Murray

 

James Scott Murray, 73, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2024 at his home in Plainfield, Indiana surrounded by his family. He was born on June 6, 1950, in Muncie, Indiana.

 

Upon meeting Jim, one would realize right away that he was one of a kind. Always a jokester that cherished making people laugh and smile and was able to relate to everyone he met. He never knew a stranger. Whether you've known him your entire life, or just met him once, he made an impression and his sense of humor was infectious.

 

Jim was a five-time cancer survivor over the past 19 years and fought hard to give those that loved him more time. To his family he was the strongest and bravest man they knew. Not only was he strong enough to defeat cancer so many times, but he never let anything hold him back from being there for his family and friends and kept a positive outlook on life. He was a loving husband, supportive father, goofy papaw, and loyal friend. Jim cherished his grandchildren and was able to spoil them as much as he could. 

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A graduate of Wes-Del High School and Ball State University, Jim began his career teaching special education in Richmond. He moved to the position of Assistant Director in Connersville for several years. His next position was at Plainfield Community Schools where he served as both the Director of Special Education and as Principal of the Kindergarten program. Jim retired from Plainfield in June 2011 after serving many years being an advocate for students with disabilities and impacting those around him. Jim knew how to live and enjoyed his retirement with his friends and family.

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Outside of his professional life, Jim enjoyed singing, shopping, traveling, eating, and spending time with his family and loved ones. While living in Richmond he enjoyed being a part of Richmond Civic Theater and was a cherished member of Lighthouse Assembly of God where he served as worship leader and director of the annual Easter Drama for many years. When he moved to Plainfield he was a member of Lakeview Church and volunteered as a barista at the cafe not only serving delicious drinks but also making sure to tell a joke or two. Jim was also involved in Mens Ministries and touched many lives through Discipleship Walks. 

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Jim is survived by his wife of 52 years, Rita Ann Murray; sons Ben and Nick Murray; daughters-in-law Cristy Murray and Nerrissa Phillips-Murray; grandchildren Chandler, Sophia, Malakai, Harper, and Kingston; and sister Susie (David) Rourke. He was preceded in death by his father, Clyde Murray; mother Francis (Bicknell) Allison; sister Marilyn Delk; brother-in-law William Delk; and brother Paul Murray.

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A celebration of Jim’s life, titled "Celebrate the Laugh of Jim Murray," was held at Lakeview Church on Saturday, March 16th, from 1-4pm. A scholarship benefiting Special Education students is being created in his honor. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.