Marie Murray

Marie Murray

1928 - 2025

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Marie

Obituary of Marie Murray

Doris Mildred Murray, best known as Marie, passed away peacefully at 96, holding her children’s hands and smiling as she listened to her favourite family stories. She was deeply touched by the time with her sister and brother-in-law and the many friends who visited her in her final days.

Marie was a force of nature—always on the move, running up three flights of stairs to her Stoney Creek apartment, gathering with friends for a lively chat, or setting off on a spontaneous junket. Until June 2024, she was ready for a walk or drive, a game of cards, or a conversation that included family lore, life advice, and saucy jokes. Her beloved “Tim Hortons gang” brought her great joy in later years, and she cherished the friendships that made life so rich.

Marie was predeceased by her second husband, Norman Allen Murray (2009), and her dear companion, George Edward Miller (2017). She was previously married to Thomas James May, with whom she raised two children, Thomas May (New York City) and Cheryl May (Toronto). During her yearly visits to California and Massachusetts, Marie spent time with her son, Tom, and granddaughter, Jessica, and in recent years, enjoyed visits with Tom and his wife, Virginia Thomas. Affectionately known as Dordy to her family, she was a bright light to her daughter Cheryl May, son-in-law Julian Richings, her grandson, Frederick, and granddaughter Rosemary and her husband, James Elliott. Her bond with her sister, Linda Hilton, and brother-in-law, Mike Hilton, remained unbreakable throughout her life. Her cherished nephew, Shane Hilton, sister Joan, and brother-in-law, Tim Haggart, predeceased her.

Daughter of Cecile (née Fretz) and Gordon Johnson and born in Tintern, Ontario, her roots ran deep. She often reminisced about generations of life on the family farm, her Mennonite heritage, and her teenage roller-skating days when she renamed herself Marie.

She moved to Toronto, raising her family in East York while working at the Independent Order of Foresters until 1980. Marie’s love of people and travel took her far and wide—Alaska, Jamaica, Europe, road trips across the U.S., and winters in Arizona and Florida with her husband, Norm, with whom she shared many wonderful adventures.

Marie will be remembered for her quick laugh and ready humour. Although she was always prepared for an adventure, she remained deeply connected to the people and places she cherished most. Her spirit lives on in the stories she shared and the joy she brought to friends and family. In her final days, Marie reflected with gratitude on a life well lived. In her honour, she’d love nothing more than for you to take a walk, play a hand of cards, or share a laugh with good friends.

Donations in memory of Marie (Doris) Murray to the Hamilton Public Library, Local History Collections  or visit your local branch.