The Huntington, West Virginia, community is mourning the loss of Byron Murrell, the beloved father of defensive back Bryson Murrell.
Known for his warmth, loyalty, and lasting friendships, Byron’s sudden death has left his family, friends, and former classmates heartbroken.
Byron Murrell, a Huntington native and Marshall University alumnus, proudly described himself as the father of “two great boys — two of the best kids a dad could ask for.”
Those who knew him remember a man who loved deeply, laughed easily, and always lifted the spirits of those around him.
Byron’s passing sparked an emotional outpouring across social media, as friends shared heartfelt memories and prayers for the Murrell family.
K.C. Clemons, a lifelong friend, wrote,
“Don’t have a lot of words to say, just hurt. You’ve been a solid friend since the sandbox. May God have mercy on Mrs. Beverly and Mr. Tommy. ‘Til we meet again, bro.”
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Others echoed the same sentiment of loss and admiration.
West V Mike remembered Byron as “solid as they come, never switched up,” while Sean Hornbuckle, Loveil Wade, and dozens more filled comment sections with prayer emojis and broken hearts.
The community’s grief reflects just how deeply Byron’s spirit touched others.
Davia McCoy shared a touching tribute, imagining Byron reunited with friends Lavanso and Brandon Dotson:
“I know you all are clownin’ together with your Kool-Aid smiles.”
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Among the many who reminisced about Byron’s life, D’Ann Redd recalled their long friendship that began in early childhood.
“We would fight and fight,” she wrote,
“but then come together and say, ‘Are we getting the group together to go to prom?’”
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She shared memories of their high school years, community gatherings, and the joyful bonds that shaped their youth.
Their shared history, as Redd explained, was woven into a close-knit Huntington community that grew up together — through YMCA basketball, cotillion events, and high school dances.
“We had amazing parents in the community that kept us all together,” she said.
“Now Byron joins Lavanso and Brandon. I’m not ready to be in this stage of adulthood.”
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For Bryson Murrell, his father’s legacy will continue to guide him both on and off the football field.
As a talented defensive back, Bryson has long credited his family’s encouragement — especially his father’s — for his perseverance and love for the game.
Byron’s kindness, humor, and unwavering loyalty leave an enduring impact on all who knew him.
From his Huntington roots to his days at Marshall University, he built a life centered around friendship, faith, and fatherhood.
As the community continues to grieve, one thing remains clear: Byron Murrell’s life was one of love, laughter, and unshakable devotion to his family and friends.
His memory will live on in his sons, his loved ones, and the countless people who were blessed to call him a friend.
