Homer Cecil “Pat” Murray, 93

Homer Cecil “Pat” Murray  was born on October 14, 1931 to Homer (Pat) Cecil Murray (Red) and Theresa Schill Murray. Pat was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and brother.

He was an active parishioner for many years at Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Jacksonville before moving to Middleburg and joining St Luke Catholic Church.

Pat served his country in the Naval Reserves. He graduated from St Leo Prep School 1950 where he played basketball. He was very involved in the music program at school. He sang in The Pirates of Penzance and Mercado, as lead tenor. Pat won the Teen Town competition in Jacksonville with his talented singing. I recently came across several records that he recorded. I was told that he could sing “Ave Maria” like no one else.

He met the love of his life, Betty Jane Whitaker. They married on January 24, 1953 and were married just shy of 70 years when Betty went to be with our Lord. His love for Mom set an example of a loving, lasting relationship for all of us. He loved his family! It didn’t matter what kind of day he was having, if one of his grandchildren or great grandchildren walked in the room, his face lit up. His brother, Jack, was one of his biggest supporters and best friend. He was always by his side.

Pat started working at Florida Founders for a short time before going to work at H&W Drew Printing as a lithographer on the 36″ printing press. He later became owner and manager at the service station at the corner Beach Blvd and Atlantic before Shell Gas bought it out and everything changed in the service station industry. After that he went in business with his brother, Jack to start J&J Guard Dogs. Shortly after, Pat took full ownership. After retiring from the guard dog business he enjoyed working at the Jacksonville Beach Golf course as a Starter for many years, retiring from there.

Pat was preceded death by his wife, Betty Jane Murray, sister, Pam Wetherhold, and daughter, Debbie Kessler.  He is survived by his daughter, Melody (HM) Hoffmann, son, Steven (Cyndi) Murray, brother, Jack (Judy) Murray, sister, Margie (Dick) Mears, grandchildren, Marc (Kara) Hoffmann, Chris (Sarah) Hoffmann, Jennifer (Justin) Frisbee, Addie Kessler, Emmette Kessler, Dylan Murray, Danielle Murray, Ted Sands, Brianna Fitzhugh, and Bobby Fitzhugh, great grandchildren, Tristan (Lindsey) Hoffmann, Trevor Hoffmann, Trace Hoffmann, Addison Frisbee,  Ayla Frisbee, Kaylin (Sammy) Collins, Trinity Hoffmann, Leah Hoffmann, Bryce Murray, and King Carter Murray as well as many extended family members.

Family Services will be held in Greenlawn Cemetery, Jacksonville, FL.

Arrangements are under the care of Russell Haven of Rest Cemetery, Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 2335 Sandridge Road, Green Cove Springs, FL  32043.  Family and friends may share their condolences at: www.RHRFH.com 904-284-7720