In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar

 

Douglas Kearney F. Murray

 

Cadet (S), U-55314, UNTD, RCN(R)

 

Born: 12 Sep 1932, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada

 

Died: 16 May 2025, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

 

MURRAY, Douglas Kearney - It is with heavy hearts the family of Douglas Kearney Murray, CD announces his passing at the age of 92, at the Victoria General Hospital, Halifax NS. A devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, veteran, athlete and community leader. Doug's life was a testament to family, integrity and honour.

 

Doug is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Marina (Legge), and their four children: Natasha (Gerald) Mader, Greenwood, Indiana; Pamela Zimmer, Halifax; Brian (Jane Calder) Murray, Halifax, and K. Anthony (Laurence) Murray, Paris, France; his grandchildren Natalie (Dan), Chris, Nick (Alyssa), Maureen (Simon), Andrew, Lydia, Sophie (Brad). Doug also leaves behind eight great grandchildren and his sister Zondra Hubley. He was predeceased by his younger brother Paul J. Murray.

 

Born in St. John NB on September 12, 1932 to Roy Douglas Murray and Helen (Jeffery), Doug moved with his family to Halifax shortly after birth. He attended St. Thomas Aquinas School and Queen Elizabeth High School graduating in 1950. It was during these formative years Doug developed a love and talent for football, hockey and excelled in public speaking, winning numerous awards. Following high school Doug attended St. Mary's University (SMU), graduating in 1955, where his Jesuit professors made a lasting impact on him. He was a varsity athlete in hockey, football (winning a national championship in 1954), president of the Arts Society, sports editor for the university newspaper, and active in student affairs. While at SMU he earned three prestigious gold "M" awards for athletics and academics. Doug also served as a bronze medallion lifeguard at the Halifax Arm - his love for swimming endured throughout his life, a regular at the Waegwoltic club for decades.

 

While attending SMU, he joined HMCS Scotian with the UNTD's and served upon the HMCS Crescent as a gunnery officer cadet.

 

In 1956 Doug began his distinguished career with Imperial Oil in Halifax, and it was during this time that he met the love of his life Marina, an RN at the Halifax Infirmary. They married in April 1957 in Wolfville, NS. The majority of Doug's career was spent living in Fredericton NB, where Doug was an active member of the Rotary Club, St. Dunstan's Church, and as well involved in the provincial scene becoming President of the PC party. Additionally, Doug was also a proud member of the 1RNBR Carleton and York regiment as unit Adjutant.

 

After 28 years Doug retired from Imperial Oil and began working for the New Brunswick government in Commerce and Development.

 

In their later years Doug and Marina moved back to Halifax and launched a successful real estate appraisal business, working together until they both retired.

 

"Papa Doug" as he was affectionately known to his grandchildren will be remembered for his kindness, humility, numerous accomplishments, service to his country and immense pride of his family.

 

"You did what you came to do, Dad. You found your purpose and you fulfilled it. Rest now. I know your journey will be smooth, and filled with love and light".

 

In lieu of flowers, donations to Halifax Hospice would be greatly appreciated. The family wishes to send a special thank you to their neighbours, the staff on 4B-VG Hospital, and to the Palliative Care team on 7A-VG Hospital where he spent his final few days.

 

Visitation will be held on Sunday June 8 from 3-5 at JA Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Drive, Halifax. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Monday June 9 at 12:15 at Saint Ignatius of Loyola Parish, 5 Bedford Street, Bedford. Reception to follow at RA Park, at 5425 Sackville Street Halifax, 2:30-5:00. (The Halifax Chronicle Herald 31 May 2025)

 

Ships served in:

HMCS SCOTIAN

HMCS CRESCENT

 


 

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