Deacon Stanley Lee Murray, Sr., 55, of Palatka, entered the sunset of life on Wednesday, March 16th at Putnam Community Medical Center. A native of Jacksonville, Stanley was born on Wednesday, February 29, 1956 to Ralph M. Sr., & Edith V. (Amons) Murray, and was raised by his beloved grandmother, Christine Merrick in Palatka. At an early age, he accepted Christ at Greater Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church and attended Allen Chapel AME Church. Stanley graduated from Palatka South High School class of 74. Stanley later joined New Life Temple Fellowship, East Palatka, where he was affectionately known as Sarge. Stanley was an active leader in the church ministry, serving as a Deacon, Adjutant, Financial Secretary and Secretary of the Mens Department. From 1974, he commenced employment at Georgia Pacific (formerly Hudson Pulp & Paper) retiring in 1996 as a Tissue Converting Department Supervisor. In 1995 he was united in marriage to the former Valaria Humphrey.

In addition to his parents and grandmother, Stanley is preceded in eternal rest by his brother, Ralph M. Murray, Jr.

To cherish his memories: devoted wife of 16 years, Valaria H. Murray, Palatka; 7 sons, Stanley Murray, Jr.; Calvin Murray, Johnathan Murray, all of Palatka; Theron (Krystal) Glenn, Aceworth, GA; Chavarious Murray, U.S. Navy, Gulfport, MS; Javon Murray, U.S. Navy Virginia Beach, VA; James Humphrey III, Daytona Beach; 5 daughters, LaShica Murray, St. Petersburg; Stanneika Murray, Jacksonville; Tiffany Betts, Synettress Humphrey, both of Palatka; Sheria Murray, Coral Springs; Brother, Gale P. (Joyce) Murray, Jacksonville; Sisters, Linda Murray (Ronald) Jennings, Cassandra Murray, and Marilyn L. Murray, all of Jacksonville; 16 Grandchildren and a host of nieces & nephews other relatives and caring friends.

Visitation of family and Friends will be Friday, March 25th 5-8 p.m. at the Chapel of Serenity. Celebration of Life will be 11a.m. Saturday, March 26th at Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church, 4909 St. Johns Ave. Palatka, Rev. Karl N. Flagg, Pastor. Bishop Mark A. Jones, Presiding Prelate, New Life Temple Fellowship of Churches International, is the eulogist.

Interment will be in Oak Hill West Cemetery.