Richard Murray went to be with the Lord Friday evening, Aug. 12, 2016 from his Ontario home surrounded by family.
After a courageous battle against cancer, his faith became sight at the age of 76.
He was born Feb. 3, 1940 in Cardington to parents Everett and Ruth (Shaw) Murray. After graduating from Edison High School he earned a bachelor’s degree from Ashland College, a master’s degree from Kent State University, and he achieved his master’s plus 30. While studying at Ashland College, Carol Postema caught his eye and the pair married on Aug. 22, 1964 and together raised four children.
Dick was a biology teacher at Madison High School for over 35 years and after his retirement continued to substitute teach. He was a hardworking man and in the summer ran his own concrete business.
Dick was a master storyteller and loved inventing stories for his kids and grandkids. He was also the epitome of a prankster. He loved scaring friends and family, playing tricks, and being ornery. He ran many marathons and triathlons and thoroughly enjoyed nature. But mostly Dick will be remembered for his servant’s heart, integrity, and love for God and family.
Dick was a longtime member of the Lexington Presbyterian Church where he previously served as a member of session, and deacon.
He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years Carol Murray, of Ontario; three daughters Beth Minnear, of Cumming, Georgia, April (Ramses) Meijer of Chicago, Illinois, and Melia (Marc) Lamoreaux, of Greenwich, Ohio; a son Mike (Ande) Murray of Eagle, Colorado; 15 grandchildren: Anna, Daniel, Matthew, Abi, Maxime, Aaron, Ben, David, Gracelyn, Emily, Isaac, Caleb, Briggs, Cannon, and Harlow; two brothers Dean Murray and Roger Murray; and sister-in-law Barb Murray.
In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by a brother James Murray.
Friends may call 4 to 8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 15, 2016 at the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home. A private burial will be held Tuesday morning at Maple Grove Cemetery in New Haven. A Celebration of Life service will be held 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2016 in Lexington Presbyterian Church (35 West Church Street in Lexington) where Pastor Jim Randas will officiate, and the family invites everyone to bring a memory to share.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory to Shriners Hospitals for Children or Richland Pregnancy Services may be made at his services.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve Dick’s family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence to them—and watch his tribute video at http://www.snyderfuneralhomes.com/obituary/richard-murray/
