Daniel Luther McMurtry

Daniel Luther McMurtry, aged 55, departed this world on April 21, 2025, far too soon for all those who knew and loved him. He was a resident of Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, where he made his home near the sand, sea, and sun which he loved so dearly. He was a well-known disability attorney, but more importantly, he was a son, a brother, an uncle, and a dear friend to all those who had the honor and pleasure of knowing him throughout his amazing life. 

Dan, as he was called by friends and family, was born in Nashville, Tennessee, to Roger and Jane (Wisener) McMurtry on March 6, 1970. He was a graduate of Mt. Juliet High School (Class of '88), Middle Tennessee State University (Class of '92), and Mississippi College of Law where he obtained his Doctor of Jurisprudence Degree. He practiced law from 1997 until his death.

Throughout his life, Dan always aimed to help others, both through his law practice and as a friend. He always had words of encouragement for everyone he met, no matter how large or small the challenges they faced. He loved his life on 30A, from sunsets over the emerald waters of the Gulf, dinner and drinks at Shunk Gulley’s, Stinky’s, or the Red Bar, or impromptu runs to the Donut Hole, Dan always found a way to enjoy life; wherever he was, with family and friends alike. He was an active member of the 30A Walk/Run Club, and Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Destin. If he wasn’t running, participating in jiujitsu, Muay Thai, or hot yoga, you might have seen him in his blue Jeep driving down 30A with his sweet dog, Bella, in the back.

The world was a much better place with Dan in it, and we are all truly fortunate for having shared it with him. Even in death, he chose to help others through organ/tissue donation, and because of him, someone has been given the gift of sight. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roger and Jane. He leaves behind his sister, Shirley Savage (Glen) of Livingston, Tennessee; his two nephews of whom he was so proud, Joshua Savage (Sarah King) of Roseburg, Oregon and Jacob Savage (Catherine Dodd) of Livingston, Tennessee; and of course, his sweet dog, Bella. He also leaves behind many, many, special lifelong friends.

At his request, Dan’s ashes will be scattered in the Gulf of Mexico in a private ceremony.  A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In honor of Dan, if you feel so moved, the family requests that donations be made to an animal rescue of your choice. Throughout his life, Dan had many rescue animals, and animal rescues were near and dear to his heart. We honor his memory by continuing to support that cause.