Joe Murray
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With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Joe Lester Murray, age 84, our loving and devoted husband, father, and friend to all whose lives he touched. He spent many years of his life in Mercedes, TX, and Charlottesville, VA, until he passed away peacefully on December 4, 2021, surrounded by loved ones.
Joe was born to the late Crockett Murray and the late Marcelina Murray on August 17, 1937.
Joe is preceded in death by his parents and his beloved grandmother, Carlotta.
His memory will be cherished by his wife of 61 years, Marie, originally of Madrid, Spain. His three daughters, Susan of Atlanta, Sandra of Charlotte, and Sylvia of Phoenix. Sons-in-law Ty of Atlanta, Mark of Charlotte, and significant other John of Phoenix. Grandchildren Kirsten of Denver, Michelle of Ft. Irwin, Zachary of Charlottesville. His sister, Donna of Mercedes, and many extended family members and friends.
Joe served four years in the Air Force, two years as a reservist, and 20 years in the Army with a tour in Vietnam. He and his family enjoyed the adventures of his military career as he was stationed in Spain, where he met the love and light of his life. He was posted twice in Germany and Tehran, Iran.
In retirement, Joe continued to serve his country and community as a food bank volunteer stocking the pantry and working in the soup kitchen. He actively participated with the Wounded Warrior house in Charlottesville. He made monthly trips to tend to the needs of the wounded vets from the Gulf and Afghanistan Wars hospitalized at Walter Reed. He never forgot his Vietnam War buddies and attended the annual reunion of the 49th Armor Division - Texas in Mercedes.
He was an active member of Holy Comforter Catholic Church in Charlottesville, VA, for many years. He participated as an usher, greeter, and volunteer with PACEM, assisting in the Homeless Shelter once a week. Another church ministry that Joe loved was his work with the Knights of Columbus, especially the pageantry. He served as Grand Knight for one term. He particularly enjoyed working the fundraising event for the Knights of Columbus at Friday's After 5. Joe was at his best when he was helping people, whether it was giving someone a ride to an interview, getting someone a new pair of shoes, or giving someone his car. He touched the lives of so many with his generosity, caring heart, and loyalty. He will be greatly missed.
A Memorial Mass will be held at the Catholic Church of St. Ann, Marietta, GA, on Thursday, December 9, 2021. Inurnment will follow at Arlington National Cemetery.