Howard Dale McMurray

Howard Dale McMurray, 87, of Kingsport, passed away Sunday, April 26, 2026, with family and friends by his side.

He served in the U.S. Army in the 394th Engr. Co., and was later assigned to Co. A 926th Engr. Bn., then retiring from the U.S. Army Reserves in 1965.

He was a tough competitor in drag racing where he won many trophies. This puts into perspective why he and his late wife, Katherine, had such a love for NASCAR and were so fond of Dale Earnhardt.

He also loved deep sea fishing, which he enjoyed with his family.

He owned and operated his own excavating business after leaving Fluor Daniel and Yergen Construction of 28 years, contracting for Tennessee Eastman.

He was a friend to all that knew him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Forest and Rozella McMurray; wife, Katherine; sons, Tony and Greg; sisters, Evelyn Haynes and Edna Carpenter; brother, Bobby McMurray.

Dale is survived by his grandson, Anthony McMurray II; great-grandson, Silas McMurray; and his daughter-in-law, Darlene McMurray Inscoe; several nieces and nephews. The family thanks Beacon Hospice for compassion through their care. Also, special caregivers, Rhonda Shupe and Dianne Coomer.

Visitation for family and friends will be held at Trinity Memorial Centers, Kingsport, TN, on Friday, May 1st, from 5-7 p.m. Funeral will follow with Larry Browder officiating.

Music will be provided by the McMurray brothers, Don, Gorman, and Larry. Graveside services with Preacher Gorman McMurray will be held at East Lawn Memorial Gardens on Saturday, May 2nd, at 11:00 a.m. Pallbearers will be Barry Reed, Chuck Coomer, Levi McCroskey, Hunter Shupe, Roger Shupe, and Ricky Carpenter. Honorable pallbearers will be Junior Riggs, Jasen Wells, and Mark Williams.

Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to serve the family, online condolences can be shared with the family on our website at www.trinitymemorialcenters.com.