Services
Friday, June 5, 2026
Public Viewing: 4:00 P.M. - 7:00 P.M.
Held at
Nelson & Sons Chapel Murfreesboro
448 East Burton Street
Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Family Visitation: 10:00 A.M.
Funeral Service: 11:00 A.M.
Held at
First Baptist Church
738 East Castle Street
Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Interment
Lovvorn Cemetery
Murfreesboro, Tennessee
Stanford Murry Sr. was born on April 25, 1939, in Tchula, Mississippi, to the union of Lynn Webster and Mamie Murry. He was the ninth of ten children born to this union. Stanford was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, John, Henry, Otis, Marvin, Lynn, and Guy Dean; and his sister, Nettie.
He graduated from Tchula High School in 1957. Shortly thereafter, he moved to Chicago, Illinois, where he met the love of his life, Clara. They were united in marriage on November 14, 1964, and shared 55 wonderful years together until her passing on February 24, 2020. From this union three children were born: Stanford Jr., Eric, and Kelli.
If there was one word that exemplified Stan's life, it was service. Throughout his life, he selflessly served his family, his country, his community and his church.
Stan’s most cherished role was that of a father. He was a constant presence in the lives of his children, faithfully showing up for school events, athletic competitions, and milestones both big and small. His encouragement and steady support helped shape not only his own children but also countless people who looked to him as a mentor and father figure. Whether through coaching, teaching, or simply being available when someone needed him, Stan invested in the next generation and left an enduring impact on many lives.
Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving as a Military Policeman from 1961 until receiving an honorable discharge in 1963.
Stan dedicated 34 years of service to the Chicago Fire Department. During his career, he became known not only for protecting lives but also for building community. He helped make the fire station a welcoming gathering place, where he enjoyed cooking, cutting hair, and playing racquetball and basketball with his fellow firefighters. Through hard work and dedication, he attained the rank of Lieutenant before retiring in 2001.
Finally, Stan will be remembered for his faithful service to the Lord and His church. For several decades, he was a devoted member and leader at Oakdale Covenant Church in Chicago, Illinois, where he served in numerous capacities, including the Deacon Board, Senior Choir, Sunday School, children's camps, youth retreats, and as a basketball and baseball coach and church bus driver. His ministry reflected his deep love for Christ and his commitment to helping others grow in faith. After relocating to Tennessee, Stan continued his life of service through leadership roles at Village Church Nashville (ordained Elder), Antioch Primitive Baptist Church (Deacon), and finally at First Baptist Church in Murfreesboro (Deacon and Men’s Choir).
Even during times when he spoke few words, Stan's presence was always felt. Whether through his bright smile, a well-timed joke, words of wisdom and encouragement, or his trademark greeting—"Hey there, young fella"—he left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing cards, bowling, and watching tennis, basketball, and baseball.
On November 9, 2021, Stan married his childhood friend, Carrie Rhynes and they shared companionship during the last years of his life.
On May 28, 2026, Stan was called home to be with the Lord. Surrounded by his children, he departed this earthly life and entered into eternal rest.
Stanford Murry Sr. leaves to cherish his memory his second wife, Carrie; siblings, Dorothy and Wade Murry; his children, Stanford Jr. (Nikita), Eric (Carla), and Kelli (Rico); nine grandchildren, Jecorei, De'Vion (Taylor), Evan, Kahliya, Jordan, Arykah, Jakholbi, Kijani, and Asatira; four great-grandchildren, Caleb, Kamari, Talyn, and Chance; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Though his earthly journey has ended, the legacy of his faith, service, kindness, and love will continue to live on through the many lives he touched and the generations that follow him.