David "Dave" Murray

David "Dave" Murray, a devoted craftsman, faithful church member, and beloved family man, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 6, 2026, in Spruce Pine, North Carolina. Born on March 4, 1948, in Portsmouth, Virginia, Dave dedicated his life to the creation of lasting works from wood and various other media. His skill and passion for craftsmanship reflected his deep commitment to quality and detail, leaving behind a legacy cherished by all who knew him.

A longtime and steadfast member of the Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church, Dave’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. His dedication to spreading the gospel and living according to his Christian beliefs was evident in every aspect of his character and daily walk. The church and its congregation were central to his life’s purpose, offering him a community where his spirit truly thrived. Dave crafted the pulpit and many other pieces of furniture within the church.

Dave’s family was his pride and joy. He was married to his loving wife, June Rose Guild Murray, since September 11, 1972. Together, they built a lifetime of memories and shared values. Their children—Janice Michele Murray, David Israel Murray and wife Jennifer Anne, and Leahn Rose Murray—carry forward his legacy of love and commitment. Dave was also a cherished grandfather to Zachory Ray Powell and wife Kira, James Michael Powell, Cutter Lee Powell, Logan Raymond Murray, Declan Shea Murray, and Keegan Slone Murray. His affection extended to his great-grandchildren: Maria Contessa McGuire, Asher Stetson Powell, and Dakota Ray Powell, who brought immense joy and light to his later years.

Family ties remained strong through his brother, Raymond "Sunny" Newton Murray, Jr., and sister, Cheryle Jean Mullins—who remember him with great fondness and respect— as well as his nieces and nephews: Angel Worley, Julie Dupree, Deborah Mullins, Noel Mullins, and Jennifer Mullins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond Newton Murray and Frances Marguerite Jones Murray; as well as his sister-in-law, Shirley Jane Murray; and niece, Gina Herron, who remain forever in the hearts of the family.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Dave's life at Covenant Reformed Presbyterian Church, located at 281 Edgewood Road, Asheville, North Carolina. A visitation will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 12:00 p.m. with Rev. Jim Curtis and Rev. Bob Drake officiating. A private burial will follow at the Murray Family Cemetery in Burnsville.

David "Dave" Murray’s life was marked by a profound faith, skilled brilliance, and loving devotion to his family and church community. His legacy endures in the beautiful creations he crafted and in the countless lives he touched through his kindness, teachings, and unwavering spirit. He will be deeply missed but warmly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, his family requests daffodil bulbs to be given for his family to plant at his gravesite.

Anders Rice & Roper Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve Dave's family.