Cort Anthony McMurray

Cort was born November 9th, 1962 in North Tonawanda, New York to Gerald and Judith (Siedlecki) McMurray. After graduating from North Tonawanda high school, Cort left his home of Western New York to attend Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. He then served as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the California Arcadia Spanish speaking mission. Cort moved to Houston, where he completed his Bachelor’s degree at the University of Houston, and established his family with his wife, Lynda. He owned and operated a small business out of Pasadena, Texas. In the later years of his life he was an essayist for the Houston Chronicle, and wrote select pieces for several other local publications. He served dutifully in his church in a vast array of callings.

His eclectic interests in literature, music, history, sports, sports memorabilia, family history, and gardening were a beautiful tapestry to experience and bask in, and all that knew him were uplifted by his quick wit, legendary storytelling, and writing. He found joy in all things that connected people.

He is preceded in death by his father, Gerald, and brother, Carmen. He leaves behind a large family: his mother, Judith; siblings, Mary Beth (Fortunato), Todd, Thad, Mitchell, Nathan, and Joshua; wife, Lynda; children, Samuel, Naomi, and Noah; aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Cort was loved by so many. His absence will be deeply felt by his family, friends, fellow church members, and colleagues.

A memorial service will be held 6:00PM Saturday, August 21st, 2021 in the chapel of the Richmond Texas Stake Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 9950 Mason Road, Richmond, Texas 77406. Masks and social distancing requested. A live broadcast of this service will be streamed on Zoom, accessible through Cort’s Facebook page.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.memorialoaksfunerals.com for the McMurray family.