THE Philadelphia Eagles have paid tribute after the death of a former team general manager.
Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie expressed his “heartfelt condolences” to friends and family after the sad news.
The Philadelphia Eagles have paid tribute to Jim Murray, who died at the age of 87[/caption]
Jim Murray died at the age of 87, it was announced Monday.
Murray was the team’s general manager from 1974 to 1982.
He helped build the Philadelphia team that reached the Super Bowl for the first time in 1980.
A cause of death is not known.
Eagles owner Lurie said, “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.
“We are saddened to learn of his passing and extend our heartfelt condolences to his friends and family.”
Murray had a huge impact in the community during his time with the Eagles.
Lurie added, “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.”
News of his death was first reported by Philadelphia sports radio host Rob Ellis.
“This is a tough one,” he wrote.
“It is with a very heavy heart that I share, my Godfather, Jim Murray, Co-founder of the Ronald McDonald House and former Eagles General Manager has passed away surrounded by family and friends at the age of 87.
“To know Uncle Jim was to love him. RIP.”
Murray was born in Philadelphia and first started working for the Eagles in 1969.
He was promoted to general manager five years later.
One of his biggest moves as Eagles GM was hiring future hall of fame coach Dick Vermeil.
Tributes flooded in after news of Murray’s death.
One wrote, “Jim Murray was a legendary humanitarian.
“But his impact on those in need will live on forever.
“May God Bless him and may he shine down upon us!”
While another said, “The extent of his kindness to all he could help was impressive.
“He led a great life and will always watch over his family and friends.”
