Keelan Charles Murray

MURRAY, Keelan Charles Beloved son, brother, and friend, Keelan Charles Murray lost his life in Dallas, Texas, on December 7, 2016. Born in Dallas on May 18, 1979, Keelan was a sweet and gentle soul who radiated a natural charisma. Once on a family trip to South Padre Island he caught a fish and wept for it. The fish went back to the ocean, and Keelan never went hunting or fishing again. Instead, in early adolescence he turned his attention to golf, demonstrating a natural talent. While still attending Lake Highlands Middle School, he won the junior golf championship and carried his father to victory in the father-and-son golf tournament at Lakewood Country Club, where he shot below par on more than one occasion. In a family of quick wits, Keelan was often the quickest and funniest. One of his biggest jokes of all was seemingly defying the law of averages by winning every poker game and friendly bet with his family. Tragedies endured early on begat struggles later in life. Nevertheless, Keelan was a deeply genuine and kind man who never deliberately hurt others and always put the needs of loved ones before his own. Keelan is survived by his mother and stepfather, Carol and Steve Pratt; his father and stepmother, Mark and Michelle Murray; his siblings Megan Murray, Drew Murray, and Kolby Yarnell; as well as step-siblings, aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins and other family and longtime friends. A memorial service will be held on Sunday, December 11, at 6pm, at Sparkman Hillcrest Funeral Home (7405 West Northwest Hwy, Dallas, 75225). Family and friends are welcome beginning at 5pm at Sparkman Hillcrest. The family offers its deepest gratitude to all who knew and loved Keelan for the sweet man that he was. May his soul rest in peace. Please consider a donation in Keelan's name to one of the following charities, in lieu of flowers: ShatterProof, Phoenix House, or Partnership for Drug-Free Kids.