Alfred B. McMurry, affectionally known as "Big Soul/Uncle Soul," was born December 20, 1946, in Kansas City, KS to Kermit and Anna Lou McMurry as the second son of six boys.   He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, four brothers, Murvell, Trezvant, Gerald, and Reauxdell McMurry, and adopted brother, Johnnie Mack.

He graduated from Central High School class of 1964.  He was drafted to the United States Army from May 1966 to May 1968.  During this time, he obtained the status of Sergeant Class E-5.  He most notably served in the Vietnam War.

Al not only served his country, but he also worked at the United States Postal Service for over 25 years, until he retired as Supervisor in 2007.  He was an avid griller; his specialties were ribs and brisket.  Al also loved to golf, whenever the weather was nice, you would find him on the golf course with Carlous Abner, Leonard Vann, Sylvester Webb and Carl Robins.  One of the highlights of their golfing adventures was their annual trip to Florida.

Al also specialized in giving the best hugs ever!  When you received a hug from him, it was strong, breathtaking and genuine.

On August 21, 2009, Al proudly married Nike Rosilyn Franklin.  Although Al never had children, he was the proud father to Nike's daughter, Tavia Patton (Beasley).  He enjoyed traveling and creating found memories with his family and friends.

Al was diagnosed with stage four Pancreatic Cancer October 16, 2020.  After 16 months of treatments, prayers, good and not so good days, "Big Soul" transitioned out this world on January 27, 2022.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his wife, Nike McMurry of KCMO; brother, Dr. Kermit (Susan) McMurry of Edmond, OK; cousin/brother, Winston Tollett of Kathy, TX; nephews, Justin McMurry of Oklahoma City, OK, R. Dewayne McMurry II of Los Angeles, CA, Tiant Stockman, DeAngelo and Kaleb Brown all of KCMO; nieces, Eleeya McMurry of Oklahoma City, OK, Kermetria Johnson of Grambling, LA, Carmen Stanford of Tulsa, OK; stepdaughter and son-in-law, Eric and Dr. Tavia Beasley; mother-in-law, Mary Franklin; sisters-in-law, Kim Franklin and Merley McMurry all of KCMO; best friends, Mitch Fowler and Jack Winsett of KS and a host of extended family and close friends.

Services for Mr. McMurry will be held 11:00 A.M. Thursday, February 10, 2022, at E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel.  Burial Leavenworth National Cemetery.  Friends may call from 9:00 A.M. until service time Thursday at the chapel.

Thoughtful care and services provided by E. S. Eley & Sons Funeral Chapel, Inc.