Former Philadelphia Eagles general manager Jim Murray has died at the age of 87, it was announced Monday.
Rob Ellis, a Philadelphia sports media veteran and Murray’s godson, broke the news of his passing on social media.
Murray, a West Philly native, served as the Eagles’ general manager for almost a decade from 1972 through the 1982 season and helped build the franchise’s first Super Bowl team.
‘Throughout his time in Philadelphia, Jim Murray was a passionate leader and team visionary who helped steer the franchise to its first-ever Super Bowl appearance,’ Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie said in a statement.
‘We are saddened to learn of his passing and extend our heartfelt condolences to his friends and family. Jim long served the community with integrity and compassion, co-founding the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House and helping launch the Eagles Fly for Leukemia initiative. His lifetime of contributions has certainly left a lasting impact on the Eagles family and the greater Philadelphia community.’
A graduate of Villanova, Murray served in the Marine Corps Reserve as he started his career in sports administration at minor-league baseball affiliates, the Tidewater Tides and Atlanta Crackers.
Former Philadelphia Eagles general manager Jim Murray (right) has died at the age of 87
He was hired as Villanova’s sports information director in 1966 before joining the Eagles’ public relations staff three years later.
In 1972, then-owner Leonard Tose promoted Murray to general manager. The appointment first drew ridicule but proved to be fruitful.
Murray remained general manager until 1982 hiring Hall of Famer Dick Vermeil as head coach in 1976.
The Eagles reached their first-ever Super Bowl in 1980 under Vermeil and Murray.
More to follow.
