James P. Murry Jr.

“For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” - II Timothy 4:6,7 (KJV)

A Time to Be Born... James Peter Murry, Jr., affectionately known as “Jimmy” or “Tank,” was born on April 4, 1947, in Newport News, Virginia, to the late James Peter and Geraldine Murry. The family later moved to Baltimore, Maryland, where Jimmy graduated from Frederick Douglas High School in June of 1968.

A Time to Harvest... After graduating from high school, Jimmy began his career as a bus driver for the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) before joining Lowry Drug Co. He also worked part-time at Broadway Services Inc. Following the closure of Lowry Drug Co., Jimmy dedicated himself to Broadway Services full-time, eventually rising to the role of Area Manager. His strong work ethic was a cornerstone of his character, and he instilled this value in his sons.

In addition to his work at Broadway Services, Jimmy demonstrated his entrepreneurial spirit by starting his own business, M & M Janitorial Services. After more than twenty-five years at Broadway Services, he retired to focus on his company. In the early 70s, Jimmy also ventured into the hospitality industry, opening bars in the Baltimore area where he cooked and served food while patrons enjoyed their drinks.

A Time to Laugh... Jimmy had a zest for life and loved to have a good time. He was charming, confident and ambitious. He enjoyed dancing, joking, and cooking-especially grilling. He was known for selling delicious pit beef sandwiches and chicken from his truck, he was proud of his famous BBQ. A passionate card player, particularly of spades, he brought laughter and competitive spirit to every game. Jimmy was truly the life of the party.

A Time to Love... Jimmy had meaningful relationships throughout his life, including his partnership with Debra Winston in 1979, with whom he welcomed a son, James Peter Murry, III. He also had a son, Jothan Michael Murry, Sr., with Uvonne Edwards, Jimmy’s loving and faithful partner and caregiver. Sadly, Jothan preceded him in death in 2022. Above all, Jimmy was a dedicated father who cherished his sons and held his family close to his heart.

A Time to Die... In his latter years, Jimmy attended New Trinity Church with his sister because he realized he couldn’t navigate the challenges of life without the guidance of God. After a lengthy illness, he peacefully transitioned on October 29, 2024, at 9:19 PM at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. Jimmy will be deeply missed, but we take solace in the assurance of a loving God who knows best.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his beloved son, James Peter Murry, III, and wife Lakesha; three sisters, Ettaline Falcon, Bernadine Alston, and Bernadette Davenport (John), all of Baltimore, MD; seven grandchildren: Wynter, James IV, Stephen, Jaylin, Ella, Peter, and Jothan Jr.; a loyal, and loving partner, Uvonne Edwards, with whom he shared over 34 years; two nieces, Geraldine Murry and Millette Wright; two nephews, Howard Falcon, Jr. (Melissa) and Steven Clark, Jr.; and a host of cousins, family, and friends.