James Russell Murray, 71, of Ash Grove, passed away on Friday, September 30, 2016. James was born in Everton, MO, the son of Russell and Minnie (Brown) Murray.

James Murray and Georgene were united in marriage on July 28, 1995. Together they shared over 21 years.

James was a 1963 graduate of Ash Grove High School. He was also a veteran of the Army National Guard. James was a local beef farmer and owned his own fertilizing company. He was well known for his talent of the mind and hands to create things to make life on the farm easier, not only for his farm, but for other local farmers as well. He enjoyed helping others and this was just one way that he was able to achieve this. James enjoyed the time he spent with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Georgene, of the home; four step-children, Joseph and wife Carol Rainwater, Maria and husband Danny Roberts, Robert Rainwater, and Matthew and wife Chala Baker; seventeen step-grandchildren; three step-great-grandchildren; other relatives and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 7, 2016, at 11:00 AM, at Wilson-Griffin Funeral Home, Ash Grove, with burial to follow in the Ash Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday, October 6, 2016 from 6:00-8:00PM at the funeral home.