It’s Christmas morning in the Murray house, and Missy can still picture it perfectly.
“I see pure joy wrapped in red and green. Kyler running into the living room in his pajamas, wide-eyed with excitement, surrounded by warmth, laughter, and family. Kevin and I on the couch with coffee, watching him take it all in, always grateful and thoughtful even as a child.”
For the Murrays, Christmas was never about the biggest gifts under the tree.
“Absolutely, it was the most wonderful time of the year. It was a time of togetherness and gratitude. We didn’t focus on material things. It was about being present, celebrating faith, and remembering how fortunate we were.”
Some memories stand out, like the year Kyler got a basketball hoop for the driveway.
“He couldn’t wait to try it out, but the first thing he did was invite his sister to play with him. That gift summed him up. Competitive, joyful, and kind-hearted.”
The holidays were a time of tradition, tree decorating, Christmas music, baking cookies, and giving back as a family.
“We always donated a gift together. It was important to us that our kids understood the meaning of giving.”
Around the dinner table, there was laughter, faith, and home cooking.
“We had turkey, mac and cheese, green beans, sweet potatoes, and pie. We would pray together, share what we were thankful for, and enjoy the comfort of being together. It was simple but meaningful.”
Football, of course, was always part of the day.
“Between bowl games on TV and throwing the ball in the yard, football was part of Christmas. Kyler’s love for the game showed early. He was always moving, competing, and smiling.”
Now that Kyler is grown and playing under bright NFL lights, Christmas looks a little different, but the spirit remains the same.
“It’s evolved with his schedule, but the heart of it hasn’t changed. Whether we’re together in person or over FaceTime, we keep the same traditions, family, faith, food, and gratitude. The location may change, but the love does not.”
Watching her son live out his dream has been both humbling and surreal.
“From backyard games to the NFL stage, we’ve watched him stay true to himself and his values. As parents, we’re proud not just of his success but of the man he’s become.”
Game days still bring nerves, no matter how many times she’s sat in the stands.
“Always a little. That mom instinct never goes away. I cheer, I pray, and I take in every moment, proud and grateful to watch him do what he loves.”
From the stands, Missy watches with two hearts, one as a mother, one as a fan.
“I see my son, the person, but also the athlete. I’m proud of his professionalism, his leadership, and his heart. Every game reminds me how far he’s come.”
Even during the season, when holidays overlap with football, the family finds ways to stay close.
“We stay connected, whether it’s a call, a meal sent, or words of encouragement. Family is his foundation, so we do whatever we can to make sure he feels that support, even from afar.”
Recently, Missy joined volunteers from the Kyler Murray Foundation and IdentiFreed for a night of outreach in Phoenix, an experience that grounded her in what truly matters.
“It meant a lot. Seeing people come together to serve others was powerful. It reminded me that the holidays are about compassion, not just celebration.”
That night also reinforced something she’s always believed.
“Being present, listening, and showing up mean more than any wrapped gift. Human connection is what the season is really about.”
Through Kyler’s foundation, she’s seen how giving back can ripple far beyond a single act.
“Success is a platform for impact. We hope others see that giving back, in any way big or small, truly changes lives, including your own.”
And when it comes to her Christmas message for families everywhere, Missy’s words carry the quiet strength of a mother whose faith and gratitude have shaped her family’s journey.
“Appreciate what you have. Lead with faith. Find ways to serve others. The greatest legacy you can leave your children is the understanding that blessings are meant to be shared.”
The Kyler Murray Foundation
The Kyler Murray Foundation empowers underserved youth, veterans, and cancer patients through education, opportunity, and community support. Founded by Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray, the foundation reflects his core values of giving back, creating real pathways to growth and impact for future generations both on and off the field.
thekylermurrayfoundation.org