John Philip Murray

John Philip “Phil” Murray, 63, of Charlottesville, passed away on January 26, 2018. Phil was born on December 2, 1954, in Miami, FL, to Fleming William Murray Jr. and Joyce Coffey of Crozet, VA. Phil cherished his fishing ventures at sea, as well as the simple joy of a snowy day at home. He delighted in his time at the beach, especially in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. One of Phil’s favorite pastimes was experiencing life with his grandchildren, either at their side, or cheering from the sidelines. Phil was a connoisseur of cuisine and lovingly prepared meals for his family and friends. In the early 1980’s, he started his own seafood company, Florida Specialized Seafood, where he became known to many as “Seafood Phil.” Since 2001, Phil was a sales representative for Sam Rust Seafood of Hampton, VA. On November 14, 1998, Phil married the love of his life, Brenda.

Phil was preceded in death by his father, Fleming William Murray Jr. (Ret. USMC – Korean War), his mother, Joyce Coffey Foote, and his brother Jimmy Murray. Phil is survived by his wife of almost 20 years, Brenda Murray; his beloved fur-baby companion, Buddy; his uncle, Randolph Marsh Coffey of Charlottesville, VA. Stepson and daughter-in-law, Keith and Jamie Payne of Charlottesville; stepdaughter and son-in-law, Kristie and Tim Chandler of Waynesboro; grandsons, Garrett and Austin Payne; granddaughter, Grace Chandler; stepbrother, Ernie Foote and nephew, Matthew Foote. A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2018, at 2PM, at Church on the Hill in Fishersville, VA. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in honor of his beloved mother, Joyce.