July 18, 2025

Remembering a Lifelong Educator: A Celebration of Community

News Summary

Jacqueline McMurray, a treasured educator and community member from Jacksonville, recently passed away at the age of 88. Her dedication to teaching and community service has left a lasting impact on countless lives. Known for her work at both local schools and as a Sunday School teacher, McMurray instilled values of learning and faith in generations. She is survived by her loving family and will be remembered for her contributions and legacy within the community.

Jacksonville, Florida – Jacqueline McMurray, a beloved educator and longtime community member, passed away on July 16, 2025, at the age of 88. A lifelong resident of Jacksonville, McMurray’s contributions to both her family and the local community made her a cherished figure. Her passing marks the end of an era for many who knew her through her work in education and her community service.

Born in Carbur, Taylor County, Florida, McMurray attended Annie Lytle Elementary School and graduated from Robert E. Lee High School. Throughout her life, she demonstrated a deep commitment to learning and teaching, which inspired multiple generations of students. She played a significant role not only in her professional life but also as a member of San Jose Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday School for many years, positively influencing the spiritual development of many young families in the area.

McMurray worked alongside her husband, Roy E. McMurray, Jr., at Times Square Hardware and Feed Company on University Blvd., where she served as the bookkeeper. Together, they built a life rooted in service and community. Their partnership extended beyond business, as they were actively engaged in local initiatives and help foster a strong sense of neighborhood camaraderie.

Jacqueline McMurray is survived by her three children, Julia A. McMurray, David R. McMurray (Patricia), and Cynthia M. Cuneo (Chris), as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren, Arrington G. Lentz (Bryan), Amanda M. Roe (Jonathan), and Cassie McMurray, and her four great-grandsons: Cameron Lentz, Jack Lentz, Owen Roe, and Liam Roe. She was preceded in death by her parents, Dallas Lambert and Edna Knight Lambert, her husband Roy E. McMurray Jr., and her great-grandson, Alexander Gray-Still.

In recognition of her contributions and to honor her memory, the family has requested that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America or to The Foundation of Community Hospice & Palliative Care. These donations will support vital services that align with Jacqueline’s compassion and caring spirit.

A visitation to celebrate Jacqueline’s life will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Hardage Giddens Chapel Hills, located at 850 St Johns Bluff Road North, Jacksonville, FL 32225. Following the visitation, a funeral service is set to begin at 12:00 PM, paying tribute to her lifelong commitment to her family, faith, and community. A committal service will take place afterward in the cemetery.

Jacqueline McMurray’s legacy will linger on in the hearts of those she touched. Her dedication to her community, family, and faith serves as a testament to a life well-lived, inspiring future generations to carry forth her values and commitments.

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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER

The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

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