January 18, 1954 ~ February 23, 2025 (age 71)
Obituary
Gary Lynn Murray, 71, of Chireno, Texas, passed away peacefully in his home on February 23, 2025. He was born January 18, 1954, in Nacogdoches to Haskell “Dutch” and Hazel (Hensarling) Murray. Gary graduated from Chireno High School, where he met and married his high school sweetheart, Kathy Courtwright. They shared 50 years of love, devotion, and family.
Gary was a proud father to Shawn and Tasha, whom he loved deeply. He was a dedicated electrician and maintenance man, working for Parker Corporation until his retirement in 2019. Outside of work, Gary cherished his time spent camping, fishing, growing vegetables, and taking his beloved dog, CiCi, for rides to the lake. His greatest joy, however, was the time spent with his family and friends. He had a passion for life and was known for his kindness, laughter, and unwavering support of those he loved.
Gary is survived by his wife of 50 years, Kathy Murray; his son Shawn Murray and his wife Kim of Chireno; his daughter Tasha Fults and her husband Jeremy of Nacogdoches; his sisters Rita Gartman and Sue Wisener; his brother-in-law Joel Courtwright and his wife Tina; his six grandchildren, Hunter, River, Summer, Lexi, Kinsey, and Easton; as well as numerous extended family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Haskell “Dutch” and Hazel Murray; his brothers Hershell and Brad Murray; and his sister Betty Fults.
A celebration of Gary’s life will be held Feb 27, 2025, with visitation beginning at 10:00 a.m. and funeral to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Laird’s Funeral Home, officiated by Rev. Tim Turner. Interment will follow at Chireno Lower Cemetery.
Serving as pallbearers are Shawn Murray, Hunter Murray, River Murray, Jeremy Fults, Robert King, and Conner Richardson. Easton Fults will serve as an honorary pallbearer.
Gary will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his legacy of love, family, and laughter will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Gary Lynn Murray, please visit our floral store.