James C. McMurtry Jr., 98, of Bethlehem passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2020, in St. Luke's Hospice House.

His wife of 67 years, Maxine (Allison) McMurtry, died in 2011.

Born in Chicora, he was the son of the late James C. Sr. and Cecelia (Jameson) McMurtry.

James was employed as director of administration at the IRS before retiring after many years of service. He was a lieutenant Colonel (retired) in the U.S. Army.

His was a life well-lived, and it served as a living example of duty, honor and country. His spiritual legacy was seen in his roles as father, husband, friend and church member. He took the cards he was dealt and not only improved his hand, but improved the hands of those who were blessed to have a seat at his table. His wisdom, perspective and presence will be greatly missed.

Surviving are his daughters, Deborah Kollinger of Salisbury, Md., Beth Rosenfeld (Joel) of Bethlehem, and Alyson McMurtry (Warren Berger) of Woodinville, Wash.; a son, James C. McMurtry III (Susan) of Clarksburg, W.Va.; 11 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson.

MCMURTRY — Services for James C. McMurtry Jr., who died Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2020, will be held later due to pandemic concerns.Arrangements were entrusted to Pearson Funeral Home, Bethlehem, Pa.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to St. Luke's Hospice House, c/o Development Department, 801 Ostrum St., Bethlehem, PA 18015.Online condolences may be sent to www.pearsonfh.com.