James C. Murtha

James C. Murtha, 86, of Dexter, New York, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2023, at Jefferson County Hospice Residence at the Ellis Farm.
Born on July 9, 1937, in Carthage, New York, to Floyd and Lucille (Booth) Murtha, he attended Carthage Central School. James married Rickey Singleton on January 16, 1957, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Watertown. He dedicated his career to sales, working with companies like Philip Morris, Matchmaker, Kriffs Furniture Store, Household Merit, and Raymour Flanigan. Later, he owned Jim Murtha's Mattress and Recliner Center until his retirement.
Active in the community, James initiated the Dexter Little League in the late 70s and was a former member of the Watertown Elks Lodge, #496. He enjoyed mowing lawns, going to Shorty's Restaurant, and passionately supported his children and grandchildren in their school and sports activities. An avid fan of the Yankees and New York Giants, he also found joy in watching the History Channel.
James is survived by his beloved wife, Rickey F. Murtha, three sons, James and Kelly Murtha, Theresa, NY, Joseph Murtha and his companion Shellie Lawlee, Brownville, NY, John Murtha, Brownville, NY, a daughter-in-law, Frances Murtha, Watertown, NY; a brother and sister-in-law, Bob and Shelby Murtha, Florida; eight grandchildren: Joshua Murtha, Nathan (Shaela) Murtha, Joseph and Mallory Murtha, Ashley and Gabe May, McLean and Dorothy Beyor, Taylor Murtha and her fiance, Justin Widrick, Shannon Murtha, and Nicholas Murtha, a great granddaughter Morgan Wheeler and another great grandchild on the way.
Besides his parents he is predeceased by a son, Jeffrey Murtha in 2009, a daughter, Deborah L. Murtha on May 21, 2022, a sister, June and brother Pat.
Arrangements are with the Johnson Funeral Home.
A calling hour will be held on Monday, December 4, 2023, from 11 a.m. until Noon at Immaculate Conception Church119 W Main St., Brownville, followed by a Funeral Mass at 12 p.m. Burial will take place immediately afterward at Glenwood Cemetery.
Donations in his memory may be made to Hospice of Jefferson County. Online condolences can be left at www.dexterfuneralhome.com.
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