John A. Murray

John A. Murray, 71, a longtime resident of Watsontown, died Tuesday, March 5, 2019 at his home.

He was born April 26, 1947 in Williamsport, a son of the late Dale and Grace (Moyer) Murray.  On August 26, 1985 he married the former Donna Jones, who survives. Together they celebrated 33 years of marriage.

John was a 1965 graduate of Warrior Run High School and attended the former Williamsport Area Community College.  He retired from PennDOT where he served in various roles.  Most notable, he was a bridge inspector and trained scuba diver, allowing for him to do underwater inspections.  John also worked with various road crews, performed snow removal and was a draftsman when not out on a job.

He was a member of Christ Episcopal Church, Milton.

John was an avid motorcyclist, both teaching motorcycle safety and taking trips to the famous Deal’s gap along the North Carolina and Tennessee borders.  He was athletic through his life from teaching his children and grandchildren to ski, to more recently being active in the Milton YMCA.  John stayed involved in his community through attending many Masonic and other local events.  He also enjoyed making clear toy candy and sand tarts.

John was very family oriented and most important was the time he cherished with them.

Surviving in addition to his wife are five children, John A. Murray Jr. and his fiancé, Tracy, of Watertown, NY, Sandra Finnegan, of West Palm Beach, FL, John D. Murray and his wife, Deana, of Utah, Lisa (Murray) Anderson, of Milton, and Bob Jones and his wife, Andrea, of Georgia; one brother, Richard Murray and his wife, Sandy, of Williamsport; 13 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by numerous aunts and uncles, including Edith Moyer, with whom he was close.

The family is planning a Memorial Service to be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 16 at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 187 King St, Northumberland, PA 17857.

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