James Forrest McMurray

James Forrest McMurray, a beloved brother, cousin, uncle, friend, devoted husband, cherished father, and proud grandfather, passed away peacefully on February 12th, after a courageous battle with Merkel Cell Carcinoma. He was 67 years old. James leaves behind a legacy of kindness, unwavering love, and steady support that touched everyone he met.

James, affectionately known as Jim, Jimmy, or Mac, was born in Indianapolis, Indiana, in 1957 to Harry and Joan McMurray. Jim attended St. Luke's Catholic School and Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School before earning a Marketing degree from Indiana University. Forever a Hoosier, he moved to Michigan, where he built an extraordinary 45-year career in packaging sales, driven by his passion for learning, genuine connections, and unmatched work ethic.

In his youth, Jim loved sports, excelling in tennis, golf, football, and basketball. He treasured summers spent with his Texas cousins, forging lifelong bonds filled with laughter and adventure.

While at Indiana University, Jim met the love of his life, Kathy, during a memorable mud fight that sparked a lifelong love story. They married on June 14, 1980, and over the next 44 years, built a beautiful life together in Michigan while staying true to their Indiana roots. Jim and Kathy were more than husband and wife-they were the best kind of team. Through all of life's ups and downs, they tackled everything together. Whether it was a night out or just the two of them at home, Jim and Kathy simply had fun together, always finding reasons to laugh. In 2013, Kathy's unwavering devotion to Jim was beautifully demonstrated when she donated her kidney to him, a gift that extended their time together and embodied their extraordinary bond.

A proud father to three daughters, Kristin, Megan, and Kaitlin, Jim was the ultimate girl dad-patient, protective, and endlessly supportive. He was the kind of father who didn't say he loved you-he showed it in a million ways, big and small. Ever present and endlessly proud, he was a steady rock, always waiting up until his girls were safely home and offering logical solutions to any problem. When Kristin and Megan were in a fender bender, they called him in a panic. "Dad, the car is on fire!" He quickly followed with a very calm, "Then get out." Life with him was full of laughter and adventure-daddy-daughter dances, summers at Barton Hills, concerts, Tigers and Red Wings games, weddings, and the joy of welcoming grandchildren. He made everything more fun, more special, and more full of love.

Jim also shared a special bond with his sons-in-law, Brian, Mike, and Cameron, treating them like his own sons. Whether discussing sports, cars, sharing laughs over drinks, St. Elmo's shrimp cocktail sauce competitions, or enjoying rounds of golf together, Jim's genuine warmth and respect made each of them feel truly welcomed into the family.

Jim's favorite role was Pops. He adored his five grandchildren-Ryan, Lucas, Mabel, Colin, and Harvey-and found pure joy in their unique personalities and playfulness. He was there for them, from newborn cuddles to being ambushed during water balloon fights.

A loyal fan, every year he watched IU and Detroit sports through all the ups and downs. Jim enjoyed golfing, traveling, long walks with the family dogs, and cocktail hour. His happiest moments were always surrounded by his loved ones.

Jim will forever be remembered for his steadfast faith, calm presence, world-famous back scratch hugs, beautiful Christmas trees, and his remarkable ability to make everyone feel special and valued. He had a rare gift for showing genuine appreciation and leaving a lasting impact on everyone he met.

We'll always smile imagining him saying, "You can't go. All the plants are gonna die!" just one more time. We couldn't have wished for a better husband, father, and Pops, and his absence will be deeply felt every single day. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Harry F. McMurray Jr. (2009) and Joan Moulder McMurray (2006), and his sister, Suzanne McMurray Kirschling (2020). He is survived by his devoted wife, Kathryn McMurray; his loving daughters, Kristin (Brian) McMurray, Megan (Mike) Hautamaki, and Kaitlin (Cameron) Swartz; his cherished grandchildren, Ryan and Lucas Hautamaki, Mabel and Colin Styczynski, and Harvey Swartz; his siblings, Bill (Michelle) McMurray and Nancy (Rick) Davis; and his adored nieces and nephew- Sarah, Lauren, Madalyn, Casey, Jennifer, Laura and George.

A celebration of Jim's life will take place at Lynch & Sons Funeral Home, Brighton, MI, on Thursday, Feb. 27, from 4–7 PM, with a Mass on Feb. 28 at 11 AM at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church, Brighton, MI.

Then, it's our turn to celebrate him the way he'd want-with family, friends, and a party. Join us at Crystal Gardens in Howell, Michigan, as we raise a glass and imagine Jim buying the next round, like he always would. We'll share stories, laughter, and love, knowing this isn't goodbye-just a "see you later."

Instead of flowers, please consider donations to Jim's favorite charity, the Gary Sinise Foundation, in his honor.
https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/