Billy Martin

(Marty) Murray, Jr.

Marty, as he was called by friends and family alike (Bubba by his little sister), was a joyful, spirited and playful person. He didn't have any problems making friends, flashing a big smile at everyone. He loved to pick on his friends and family, with a wild and funny humor. He was a graduate of Jacksonville State University, with a major in History and a minor in Spanish. He was ahead of his time in diversity, love, and inclusion. Marty prided himself on being a "Country Boy" that had Cherokee blood. His love for his home in Boston, left him longing to return, but he did not want to leave the "family of friends" he had made in Alabama. He would bristle easily at any injustice to any person or animal.

Marty loved the woods and wildness of the wilderness. He loved to go hiking, cave spelunking, camping and exploring different parts of the world. He loved to sing, as he was in an Acapella quartet, winning a GA State Competition. He loved Opera, as he could sing lead. He also loved the benign world of old Western movies, as he was still an Indian/Cowboy at heart. He loved many things, but arguing a political point was one of his best bases of historical knowledge. Marty loved all animals (except snakes), and had dogs all of his life. Blue, Chuey and Lulu2 were his best constant companions.

His work career was varied, as he bored easily once he mastered a task. He worked in a hospital, as he thought about becoming a doctor, before graduating with History. He taught for one semester, but found he didn't have the patience. He worked for Eastern Airlines and loved his job there, because he got to travel. He decided, when Eastern closed, to go into the Hospitality business and that is where he found his calling. Friendly and loving to talk, he excelled in that business, eventually opening a restaurant and bar, Beaux's Cajun Cuisine, just outside of New Orleans. The restaurant was a success. He eventually moved back to Birmingham, where he felt like it was his "home away from home". He worked moving radiation to/from hospitals. Sadly, he suffered a serious injury and had to retire. Retiring to Calera, AL, Marty found a community of friends and was very happy there. Sadly, this is where his story ends.

Marty was preceded in death by his Mother, Sue Cannon Murray (Woodford, Melton), Father, Billy Martin Murray, Sr.; Grandparents Charles David Cannon and Lydia Forrest Taylor Cannon; Nora "Ma" Murray. Marty leaves behind sisters, Toni Duggar, Niece Stephanie LeSuer (Mike); Lori Cannon Knifer (Jerry) and children, Ashley, Amanda, and Allissa (he called "Mini Me"); Honorable Sister in Love, Lydia Trina Ford (Terry) and children Sommer, Taylor and Lindsey; Honorable Brothers Hank and Greg; Honorable Extended Family in Love: Ventura and Lisabeth Collins and children Gisselle (Baby Girl), Aldo and Eddy; Terrell & Jennifer Lykes and family; Michael Oliver and family: and Darrell and Robin Strickland and his beloved Hattie Jubilee.

Funeral Services will be held at Boston United Methodist Church on Wednesday - January 29, 2025 at 2:00 pm with Father Godfrey officiating. Interment will follow at Boston City Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from 1:00 pm - 2:00 pm in the church Chapel. All are welcome to dress casual for the service.

A separate service will be held on Saturday - February 1, 2025 at the Waterford Clubhouse from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm in Calera, AL and you are welcome to wear a sweatshirt in honor of Marty.