Gerry Murray, a celebrated former footballer for Kingston College (KC) and Real Mona, passed away on September 15 at his residence in Red Hills, St Andrew. He was 75 years old. His younger brother, Richie Murray, confirmed the news in an interview with Observer Online, though the cause of death remains undisclosed.
Murray’s football journey began at Jamaica College, where he studied until fifth form before transferring to KC. He played a pivotal role in KC’s 1967 Manning Cup victory, scoring a crucial goal in the 2-0 final triumph over Excelsior High School. His talent earned him a scholarship to Michigan State University, where he pursued mechanical engineering and played alongside notable teammates, including Trevor “Jumpy” Harris, Tony Keyes, and Lennox Robinson.
In the 1970s, Murray transitioned to a defensive role with Real Mona, sharing the field with players like Stewart Stephenson, Peter Moses, and Ian Bond. Stephenson, a childhood friend, remembered Murray as an intense and competitive player who despised losing. Stratton Palmer, Murray’s strike partner from the 1967 KC team, described him as a quiet, soft-spoken individual deeply passionate about football.
Born in Browns Town, St Ann, Murray and his brothers moved to Mona in the early 1960s, settling near Buttercup Park, the community’s football field. Alongside Stephenson, Murray contributed to Real Mona’s victories in the Masters League competitions of 1990 and 1993.
Murray is survived by his wife Carmen, children Omari and Melissa, four grandchildren, and his extended family. A thanksgiving service will be held on October 18 at the Church of The Ascension in Mona, St Andrew, to honor his life and legacy.