MURRAY – Jacqueline Audrey Murray (Gay)
Born on February 23, 1927 in Montreal, Quebec. Jackie peacefully passed away at home with family by her side on April 4, 2024 in Brooks, AB. Beloved wife to the late James Hargrave Murray. Mother to Jane Murray Walsh, the late Brian (Eileen)Murray, Neil (Darlaine) Murray and Ross (Jackie) Murray. Grandchildren, Deanne (Brad)Cote, Scott (Lisa) Nelson. Jennifer Price, Angus Murray, Fergus Murray, Danielle (Alvin) Paul, Patrick Murray, Meghan (Adam) Desjardins , Jesse(Cera) Crane, Great great Grandmother to Hunter & Harper Price, Reese Murray, Braydon Cote, Molly & Dalton Desjardins, Hunter & Wyatt Crane, Darren(Meagan) Odland, Abigail(Daniel) Graf, Thomas(Mary) Paul, Murrie Paul and great-great-grandmother to Veronica Jacqueline: Godmother to Alex Spac. Predeceased by her parents Harry & Elizabeth Gay, son Brian Murray, grandson Kevin Murray, son in law Thomas Walsh and grand daughter in law Lindsey Murray.
She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, family & friends.
Jackie came to Medicine Hat, AB as a young bride where she and Jim operated Murray’s Flying Service. They later ventured into farming, at Cassils,AB, having never stepped foot on a farm, Jackie had a great deal to learn. She tackled the many jobs a farm wife must do, (relating many hilarious stories of failures) becoming skilled at most. From farm hand, saving baby calves in the heat of the kitchen, helping with lambing season, and trying to run a house that, at the start, had no running water. Jane was born and Jackie took on another role of young mother. Brian followed, then Neil & Ross. Farm life was rewarding and happy not without trials and heartache. She always faced every event with strength, determination with the support of a loving husband and lots of prayers. There were many happy times shared at the farm with family, friends and neighbors. Jackie loved to host a grand party. Table was set with perfection. The house and yard were filled with people. Always a good time! Jim and Jackie also operated Murray’s Aircraft Repair at the Brooks Airport for many years.
Being a Social Butterfly, she became very involved in her community, serving on a variety of boards, doing what she loved to do “organize!” She loved her garden and worked tirelessly , enjoying every minute.
Jackie has been recognized for her community spirit over the years. She was the recipient of the Queen’s Golden, Diamond and Platinum Jubilee Medals in recognition of her community commitment. She was very honored to be chosen as an Alberta Centennial Ambassador (2005) by Lyle Oberg. Spending a busy year visiting many communities. She was also rewarded Citizen of the Year for Brooks. Another Juliette of her life was being involved with Communities in Bloom countless hours of volunteer work, more “organizing!” Every year during the summer you could hear her saying “The Judges are coming!” She thrived on every quest. Jackie was also involved with genealogy along with her father in law, Thomas Murray, charting the Hargrave family history. A very big endeavor. She was a supportive part of Girl Guides of Canada as well as Scouts. She will be missed greatly by her family, friends and community.
Jackie’s Funeral will held on Friday, April 19, 2024, 2 p.m. at the Brooks United Church 503 3rd Ave West. If unable to attend you may view on the United Church Facebook page.”
