Murray Keeter

James Murray Keeter, known to everyone as “Murray”, age 85 of Big Rock, TN passed away at home on Thursday, December 28, 2023.

Murray entered this life on May 31, 1938, in Lawrenceburg, TN to the late William LittleJohn Keeter and Sarah Corine Phillips Keeter. Murray was 7th born of 14 children.

Murray had a storied career in the car business. He began his career as a “wash boy” at a Ford dealership in Lawrenceburg. Murray eventually became Parts Manager, which is when he was hired by Vernon Jenkins to work at Jenkins & Wynne in Clarksville, TN. This began his 55-year tenure at Jenkins & Wynne. Murray’s superior work ethic, commitment to customer service, and attention to detail was quickly recognized. Murray served in sales, management, service, ownership, and then finally as General Manager. Thanks to his longevity in the business, Murray’s customers and colleagues became like family to him.

Since his retirement 6 years ago, Murray stayed just as busy at Keeter Farms as when he was still working. Whether he was tending to cows, keeping a pristine equipment shed, working on a new project, or climbing (unauthorized) the occasional ladder, he maintained his upbeat spirit and determined sense of purpose.

Until his very last day, he remained active and spry. His family will remember his infectious smile, him manning the grill at family gatherings, his storytelling skills, the infamous “Keeter Court”, rides on the tractor or Ranger, his work ethic and commitment to excellence, and so many other memories that make up his legacy.

He was a member of Hilldale Church of Christ, Clarksville Masonic Lodge #89, and Al Menah Shriners. Murray was also a Veteran of The United States Army National Guard.

Murray was preceded in death by his father, mother, and siblings, Maggie, Mamye, Robert, Edward, Franklin, Billy, and Charles.

Survivors include his loving wife, Janie Wells Keeter; daughters, Beverly Taylor, and her husband Kenny, Suzanne Wyatt, and her husband, Ashley, and Courtney Eaken; grandchildren, Joseph (Lynnette) Estes, Cole Taylor, Bradley (Kourtnee) Taylor, Avery Wyatt, Abbey Wyatt, Paul Wyatt, Blane Eaken, and Luke Eaken; great-grandchildren, Grace, Claire, Hadleigh, Bradlynn, Batson, and Carter; and sisters, Hellen, Louise, and Mildred.

The family will receive friends from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at McReynolds-Nave & Larson Funeral Home. The family will receive friends again at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Hilldale Church of Christ until the hour of the service.

A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Hilldale Church of Christ with Steve Kirby officiating. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery for those who would like to attend.

Murray’s grandsons will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be the staff of Jenkins and Wynne.

Memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children or Hilldale Church of Christ FUEL Program for kids.

Online condolences may be made at www.NaveFuneralHomes.com