Brian Murray

Brian Murray, a beloved son, brother, and friend, passed away on February 9, 2026, in his hometown of Hot Springs, Arkansas. He was born on December 3, 1972, also in Hot Springs, where he spent his life surrounded by family and friends who cherished him deeply.

Brian was the son of the late Brenda K. Lash Murray and Billy L. Murray, who, along with his devoted stepmother, Sue Murray, provided him with a loving home and a strong foundation. He is survived by his brother, Todd Murray, and sister-in-law, Darbi Murray, whose bond with Brian was marked by laughter and shared memories. His family also includes his niece, Edie Johnson, her husband, Nick, and his great-niece, Parker, all of whom held a special place in his heart.

Brian's life was enriched by the love of many aunts, uncles, cousins, and a multitude of friends, each of whom shared in the joy and warmth he radiated. He was a person who brightened the lives of those around him, and his generosity of spirit will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

In 1982, following the passing of his mother, Brenda, the family relocated to Willis, Texas, where they made their home on Lake Conroe. Living on the lake would spark a lifelong love of the water in Brian, shaping a passion that would define so much of his life. It was in Texas that Brian completed his schooling and formed the kind of lifelong friendships that are only made in those formative years. He and his friends were a tight-knit group, bound by shared experiences, loyalty, and years of memories together.

In the mid-1990s, Brian returned to Hot Springs, a place that always felt like home to him. It was there that he would build his career, deepen lifelong friendships, and fully embrace the passions that defined his life.

Brian Murray lived and worked in Hot Springs as a contractor and fishing guide. He had a rare talent for working with his hands and could tackle just about any project, whether it was a small repair or building an entire home.

His favorite saying was, "Nothing to it, but to do it," a phrase that perfectly reflected how he approached life. Fishing was Brian's greatest passion. He spent most of his time on Lake Ouachita, fishing with friends or guiding others on the water. He especially loved teaching people how to fish, sharing his knowledge, patience, and love for the water with anyone willing to learn.

Brian also had a sharp, mischievous sense of humor. He was quick with a joke, a grin, or a perfectly timed, sometimes irreverent comment that kept everyone laughing. He made friends wherever he went, and his easygoing spirit, generosity, and laughter left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Brian will be remembered for his steady hands, his generous heart, his contagious laughter, and the countless memories made on the water. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the lessons he shared and leaves behind.

Cremation with a celebration of life for friends and family will be announced at a later date.

The family would like to give their most heartfelt thanks to CHI ICU for all the compassion and excellent care of Brian during the past few weeks.