Jimmy Lane Murley, age 74, passed away surrounded by the people who loved him most, and in that quiet moment, he woke up in the arms of Jesus, where he is no longer suffering.
He was born on May 7, 1951, at Tippah County Hospital to Otha H. Murley and Lora Mae Poole Murley, who raised him to work hard, stay humble, and appreciate the simple things in life. Jimmy graduated from Ashland High School in 1969 and later attended Nashville Auto-Diesel College. He never complained, no matter what life brought his way. He worked many years at Sunbeam and later retired from Carrier.
Jimmy married the love of his life, Vivian Smith Murley, and for 53 years they built a life full of love, laughter, and memories. Their story started on a double date when Jimmy kept adjusting his mirror just to sneak another look at her. That small moment turned into a lifetime together. They made their home, raised their family, and found their church family at Chewalla Baptist Church, where they’ve been members for many years.
Jimmy loved being outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and anything to do with the Second Amendment. He loved the excitement of drag racing, never missed watching his Atlanta Falcons, and always had a Pepsi close by. He also loved bluegrass music.
If you knew Jimmy, you knew he could talk to anybody. He’d strike up a conversation anywhere he went. He didn’t hide what he thought or what he believed. And at home, you could always find his dog, Precious, right beside him. She loved him just as much as everyone else did.
He is survived by his loving wife, Vivian, and their son, Edward “Bubba” Murley. They will carry his stories, his lessons, and his love with them for the rest of their lives.
Jimmy lived a simple, good life. He loved his family, his home, and the things that brought him joy. He will be missed more than words can ever say, but his family takes comfort in knowing he is healed, whole, and safe in the presence of his Savior.
Jimmy is also survived by one sister, Brenda Johnson of Falkner; one brother-in-law, Randy Smith (Sheila) of Ripley; one sister-in-law, Peggy Hale (Ronald) of Brandon, MS; a host of nieces and nephews; and his dogs, Precious and Skeeter.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Otha H. Murley and Lora Mae Poole Murley; his mother- and father-in-law, Larry and Mamie Smith; and a brother-in-law, Jerry Johnson.
Services will be held in the chapel of the Holly Springs Funeral Home. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 18th from 4 until 8 PM. The funeral service will take place on the following day, Wednesday, November 19th at 1:00 PM with a graveside to follow in the Hillcrest Cemetery.
Brother Randy Smith and Brother Greg Skelton will be officiating the funeral.