Ruth JoAnn Oxford McMurry, age 86, passed away Wednesday, September 12, 2018 in Jacksonville, Florida. She was born in Jacksonville to Ralph and Ruth (Sellers) Oxford on October 20, 1931.

She attended Robert E. Lee High School. She was baptized a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Prior to her marriage in 1952, she was a PBX operator with Seaboard Airline Railroad. When her children were little, she was an avid bowler participating in numerous leagues and tournaments. At one time, she drove a school bus. JoAnn worked at McDaniel Color Lab for 20+ years from the 1970s to the 1990s. She was the Supervisor of the Computer Department for the photo developing company. She spent many hours and travelled countless miles attending her son's football, baseball, and softball games and tournaments, and later, she did the same for her three grandsons. She attended many dance recitals for her granddaughters. Affectionately known as Nanny, her grandchildren were always a priority. For her 50th wedding anniversary, she was surprised with a backstage visit in Las Vegas with her favorite singer, Tom Jones.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her husband of 63 years, James (Mac), her son Robbie, her parents, two brothers and a sister. She is survived by her son James E. McMurry, Jr. (Margie), daughters Diane Carson (David), and Patti Tingley (Victor); grandsons Earl Wilkes (Miche), Justin Wilkes (Laura), and Ryan McMurry (Jessica); granddaughters Jennifer McMurry and Kelli McMurry; great grandchildren Mya Wilkes and Everett McMurry; brother-in-law Willis McMurry; and nieces Gail O'Brien, Barbara O'Brien, Cilla O'Brien, Pamela McMurry Anderson, and Leslie Oxford High; and a nephew, Kevin Oxford.

Visitation will be held Saturday, October 6, 2018 from 10 am to 11 am in the Arlington Park Funeral Home Chapel, 6920 Lone Star Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32211. Funeral service will commence at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow at her son's residence in Ponte Vedra.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Arlington Park Funeral Home, 6920 lone Star Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32211 (904) 724-6384.