Ta’von Durell James Murray was born on February 1, 2001 to Christy and Jerry Murray. He attended Lincoln Public Schools, including Pershing, Eastridge, Culler, and graduated from Lincoln Northeast High School in 2019. Ta’von was a lover of art and had a keen ability in drawing and pottery. He enjoyed music, cars, the Huskers, being with his family and dog, and spending time with his Teammates. Ta’von could often be spotted around the halls of Northeast, showing off his gold chains, fresh hats, and well coordinated outfits. He was a member of the Lincoln Northeast Unified Bowling team, which earned him an athletic letter his senior year. Ta’von had a huge heart for others, and spent time assisting the students within the Life Skills program at Northeast. Throughout his time in school, Ta’von built great relationships with staff in the building. He was loved by many teachers, paras, administrators, secretaries, and security. Ta’von had the ability to make anyone smile, and those he worked with shared many enjoyable memories with him. While in high school, Ta’von was able to take a trip to Disney World with his family through the Make A Wish Foundation. It was one of his fondest memories to talk about and share with others. He especially loved the time he got to spend with his family there.
While surrounded by family and friends, Ta’von died on Sunday, January 24, 2021 after a brave battle with brain cancer. He is survived by his mother, Christy Murray (Patric Rice), sisters Jakeila Murray-Savage, Kayla Murray, and Chassmen Savage, brother Teneric Savage, grandmother Sunya Carter, grandfather Will Savage, half brothers and sisters, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. Ta’von is preceded in death by his father, Jerry Murray, and grandparents John and Rudy Reed.
There will be a celebration of life on Saturday January 30, 2021 at the Firefighter’s Reception Hall (241 Victory Lane, Lincoln, NE 68528) at 1:00 pm. A catered luncheon will follow. Those who have contacted Christy about food can drop off beginning at 10:00 am. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, attendance is limited. Masks will be required. Condolences may be left at trumpmemorials.com. Trump Funeral Services, 1600 West “O” Street, Lincoln.
I was so fortunate to have gotten to know Ta’von at Pershing Elementary from Kindergarten through 2nd grade. I was there when he started school then got a job at Northeast and got to see him finish out his last years of school. He always would come into the office to visit me. We had many laughs and I loved when he was little- I asked him if I was a good rapper! When I started- He said No Ms. T that’s not good at all!!! I asked him if he could teach me- he just shook his head no-We laughed so much over that!!! I loved his spirit, His smile, His Big Heart, Those dimples and most of all I just loved Ta’von the person!!!! I will miss you. Thinking of you Christy and your family during this hard time.
I had the privilege to get to know Ta’Von during his Senior year. While I didn’t know him well, I always appreciated his big smile, his love for fashion and the arts and most importantly his love of others. Ta’Von touched the lives of so many and built positive relationships with others. I see the impact daily of the positive impact he made on others. Sending thoughts of healing to Christy and the entire Family!
Oh, how I loved Ta’Von! He was such a fun loving student to have in my 5th grade classroom at Eastridge. He made me smile often and I LOVED seeing his dimples when he smiled! I will never forget the time he told me I was doing the curls in my hair wrong. I asked him how I should be doing it. He took my hair and showed me which way the curling iron should go etc . He is quite a special boy in my heart. It was fun to see him pick up family members last year at the end of the day. He always stopped by to chat with me and flash his smile. Thinking of you all during this hard time. My deepest sympathy to his entire family.