Murray Lawrence Diamond

As a young boy Murray was surrounded by a wonderfully diverse family shaped by Russian and Italian roots as well as both Catholic and Jewish traditions. Murray was especially close to his late cousin, Lucille Sgro, whom he described as an angel for the care and guidance she provided him throughout his life.

At the age of 10 Murray was introduced to his first love, the game of baseball. By chance while watching a game in the stands, he was asked to fill in for a team that was short a player. Murray was immediately hooked and his passion for the baseball diamond was ignited. Baseball, whether as a player, fan or coach would be a source of joy he’d carry with him throughout his long life.

Murray was a natural athlete. Whether the sport was baseball, football or basketball, he personified that size (or lack of!) didn’t determine one’s success but rather having a heart like a lion, the determination to NEVER quit, combined with an impeccable work ethic was the measure of a person’s success. He’d carry those principles into every aspect of his life.

After graduating high school, Murray decided it was time to see what opportunities awaited him beyond New Jersey. Attending college with the prospect of playing football and baseball took him to Carbondale, IL to enroll at Southern Illinois University. While his academic and athletic stint was short-lived, a life altering event did happen while at SIU. To quote Murray, “I never was hit by a bus, but on Friday, May 13th, 1960, a bus ran directly over me while at a school dance in the name of the Janice Express!”. Janice completely stole his heart and she would become the driving force behind every decision he made moving forward. While most would consider Friday the 13th unlucky, Murray and Jan would beg to differ and would continue celebrating it as a very lucky occasion!

Murray and Janice made their love story official when they married on March 4, 1961. They’d spend the next 65 years together creating memories and facing life’s challenges as a unified team. While they lacked money and jobs early in their marriage they were rich in love and a strong desire to be successful. Murray continued to embody the characteristics of leadership, integrity and hard work he carried on the field into his professional career. Beginning as a warehouse employee making $55 per week in 1962 to a career in the shoe business spanning 40 years, 33 of which he spent working for U.S. Shoe where he earned the title of Division President/CEO. During his career, Murray and Jan lived in Illinois, St. Louis, MO, Cincinnati, OH, Memphis, TN and Charlotte, NC. Upon retirement, Murray & Jan relocated to Louisville, KY to be closer in proximity to their children and grandchildren.

While Murray earned many professional accolades, his greatest legacy is his children. He raised Wendi and Scott by being a constant example of maintaining strength in adversity, living with integrity and exemplifying what a kind hearted human being looks like. That legacy continues to live on thru his 7 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

As an inspiring youth league coach for both football and baseball teams, Murray left an indelible mark on generations of young athletes. Not only did he foster a love of the game, he taught his players the value of hard work and the importance of sportsmanship and character both on and off the playing field. Murray was positively impacted by the coaches he had throughout his life and relished returning the favor to the young men he coached.

Murray is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Janice. Daughter, Wendi Durso (Duncan), son, Scott Diamond (Kim). In addition, he is survived by 7 grandchildren; Nick Durso (Christina), Chelsea Peterson (Zack), Alex Durso (Natalie), Casey Diamond, Spencer Durso, Griffen Durso and Marley Crabtree (Colt). Murray is also survived by 8 Great Grandchildren; Bryce and Ava Durso, Sophie and Brody Peterson, Collins, Reese and Bennet Durso, and Emersyn Crabtree. Murray is also survived by a brother, Jerry Diamond.

In addition to his parents, Murray was preceded in death by a grandson, Madison Cox.

A celebration of life service will be held at Arch L. Heady and Son Funeral Home, 7410 Westport Rd, Louisville, KY on Friday, November 13th. Visitation will be from 2:00-4:00. A memorial service providing family & friends the opportunity to share their memories of Murray will begin at 4:00.

Murray’s family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude to the caregiving team who provided heartfelt care to Murray during his most difficult days. To Amy, Dawn, Desiree, Linda, Monique & Tevin we are so appreciative of the compassion you provided our husband/father/Grandpa.