Lynda Ruth McMurtray passed away on March 8, 2026, at the age of 79. Lynda was a beloved, compassionate, wonderful woman who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. She was a resident of Knoxville, Tennessee, and was formerly of Gulfport, Mississippi.
Lynda was a wonderful wife, mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother who loved her family dearly. She is survived by her loving husband, John McMurtray; her son, Daniel “Danny” J. McMurtray ; daughter-in-law, Patricia McMurtray; and her granddaughter, Molly McMurtray. Lynda was preceded in death by her mother, Carmen Elizabeth Wolverton French, and her father, Orean K. French.
Lynda found joy in the beauty of everyday life. She loved making jewelry, gardening, and all types of flowers, tending to more than 350 container plants each day with devoted care. She also loved the beach, especially Ship Island on the Gulf Coast.
Lynda’s compassion extended beyond people to all of God’s creatures; she believed it was her duty to feed God’s hungry animals. She also cherished Christmas and especially loved decorating for the season, sharing that warmth and spirit with those around her. Known for her generosity, Lynda gave freely of herself and to others throughout her life.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Berry Highland South, Magnolia Chapel, 9010 E Simpson Rd, Knoxville, Tennessee 37920.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Lynda’s memory to The American Heart Association (www.heart.org).
