Guy Earnest Murray, Jr.

Guy Earnest Murray, Jr., 90, of Bedford died on December 13, 2025. He was the adoring husband of Rosalie Langford Murray for over 39 years.

G.E. was born in Roanoke, Virginia, on March 31, 1935, a son of the late Guy Earnest Murray, Sr. and Jane King Murray. He was a graduate of Bedford High School Class of 1953 and Virginia Military Institute Class of 1957 with a B.S. in Civil Engineering.

The lifelong friendships he established at VMI provided deep connections and led to many reunions over the years with his fellow Keydets where G.E. proudly served as liquor chairman.

After graduating from VMI, G.E. entered the United States Air Force obtaining the rank of Captain assigned to piloting the F-101B “Voodoo” supersonic jet fighter. He also served in the Virginia Air National Guard piloting the F-84 “Thunderjet.” He remained a private pilot for over 60 years and enjoyed entertaining family and friends with stories from his flying adventures.

G.E. was co-owner of Murray & Bolling Chevrolet in Bedford and served on numerous community boards including Carilion Health System, Bedford Memorial Hospital, Bedford City Council and the Bedford City School Board.

In addition to travelling the world with Rosalie, G.E. enjoyed skiing, farming, fishing, boating and taking in the “Best View on the Lake!” from his property at Smith Mountain Lake.

In addition to his devoted wife, Rosalie, G.E. is survived by his daughters, Melinda Bhandari (Harish) and Jennifer Kovel (Jeff); stepson, Chris Tharp (Sarah); grandchildren, Guy Walker Laughon and friend, Allison, Lola Kovel and Violet Kovel; step grandchildren, John Tharp and Ted Tharp; his sister, Sue Craghead; niece, Allison Karnes (TT), and several grandnieces and a grandnephew.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his son, Wade Duval Murray; a grandson, Charles Joseph “Tripp” Laughon, III and his nephew, David M. Copeland.

G.E. was a proud husband, father, grandfather, Virginian and a patriotic American. His many stories, integrity and generosity will echo for generations through all who loved him.

The family will hold a private memorial celebration for a well-lived life.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to the VMI Foundation, P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450 or the National D-Day Memorial Foundation, P.O. Box 77, Bedford, VA 24523

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Bedford, is assisting the family. To send condolences, please visit tharpfuneralhome.com.