Pastor Joseph McMurrian

A Life of Faith and Service
Supt. Emeritus Joseph (Snapper) L. McMurrian, a beloved leader and faithful servant, passed away peacefully on July 13, 2024. Joseph was born January 6, 1940, in Urbana, AR to the late Joseph L. McMurrian Sr. and the late Louise (Hicks) McMurrian. He started working at the early age of 7 as a farmer and began working as a logger at the age of 16. He later went on to work as a machine operator for companies such as Georgia Pacific, Cooper Rubber Company, and Anthony Forests for over 40 years. January 20, 1962, Joseph married the love of his life the late Rubie L. (McHenry) McMurrian of 47 years, there were 8 children added to this union.
Ministry and Community
Supt. Joseph McMurrian started his pastorship at Highlight C.O.G.I.C. in Urbana, AR. In 1969 the Lord led him to move to El Dorado, AR where he purchased a building that became Old Path C.O.G.I.C. He was the spiritual shepherd of Old Path C.O.G.I.C. for over 40 years. His sermons resonated with congregants, inspiring hope, and encouraging acts of kindness. He tirelessly visited the sick, comforted the grieving, and advocated for social justice. He dedicated his life to spreading love, compassion, and the teachings of Christ. His warm smile and open heart touched countless lives.
Family and Legacy
Joseph was preceded in death by his father Joseph L. McMurrian Sr. and mother, Louise (Hicks) McMurrian, and wife, Rubie L. McMurrian. His brothers, Allen Jr. McMurrian, and Robert L. McMurrian, his eldest son Herman (Sherry)Levingston. He leaves behind to cherish his fond memories, his brother John Calvin McMurrian, of Urbana, AR. his children, Velma Levingston, Brenda Fulton (Carl Sr.), Franklin (Marilyn) McMurrian, Joe Nathan (Elizabeth) McMurrian, David (Sonya) McMurrian, Jacob (Tammy) McMurrian, Rubie Mae McMurrian. He was blessed with twenty-eight grandchildren, and an army of great-grandchildren. A host of cousins, nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, and friends. Joseph McMurrian's spirit will forever live on in the hearts of all his loved ones. May he rest in peace.