Thurber Rayburn Murphree

Thurber Rayburn Murphree, known as TR or Ray by most, passed away on August 23, 2025. Mr. Murphree was born in Cullman County, Alabama, on August 21, 1931, to the late Oncie H. and Dessie Lambert Murphree.

Ray was a farmer who loved the land and his cows. He was also a carpenter and worked in the construction industry for over thirty-five years. Ray was a devoted and loving husband to his beloved, Dean, for almost seventy-two years, and his love for his children and grandchildren was evident. His nurturing spirit and concern for others extended to the community where he served as a father figure to many.

Mr. Murphree served our nation in the United States Army and his service, and dedication is remembered honorably.

Mr. Murphree is preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Susan Murphree; and his brothers, Leonard Murphree, Therman Murphree, Douglas Murphree, Kenneth Murphree, and Bobby Ray Murphree.

Ray’s memory will be cherished by his wife, Dean Murphree; children, Rebecca Zwiebel, Bruce Murphree, Brett Murphree (Melinda); grandchildren, Kevin Giles, Chris Giles, Carey Giles (Crystal), Dustin Spradlin (Alex); great-grandchildren, Daron Giles, Samantha Giles, Madalyn Giles, Alyssa Giles; sisters, Delba Bright, Glenda Bates, Elaine Simpson; and a host of nieces and nephews, friends and family.

Friends are invited to visit with the Murphree family on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, in the Holly Pond Funeral Home Chapel from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. A graveside service will follow visitation in Union Grove Cemetery at 1:00 p.m. with Hermon Lambert officiating.

Holly Pond Funeral Home is honored to serve the Murphree family.