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America Ana Mariama Sape Murray
America Ana Mariama Sape Murray
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America Murray Obituary
No one who met America would soon forget her. She was bright, generous, kind, outgoing, and an amazing storyteller and lecturer. She was genius and dedicated, quickly becoming an expert at whatever she picked up, whether it be art, Lindy Hop, camera techniques, computer programming, or how to boil the perfect water for pasta. This extended to pet ownership, researching for months before adopting her dog, Sadie. Then, when the cat distribution system caught up to her, keeping a detailed daily observation log as she in turn was adopted by her cat Oliver. America's energy around others and her passion for her interests were truly unmatched. Most importantly, she was an integral part of a group of friends that will never be the same without her. They all agree: you will have never met anyone else like America.
Born in Sierra Leone, America graduated from Stratford High School in Goose Creek, South Carolina in 2005, going on to study Polymer and Fiber Chemistry at Clemson University. She ultimately earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from Southern New Hampshire University and was employed as a Systems Developer and Programmer for the Clemson Foundation, a career which brought her great joy and satisfaction. Former occupations highlight her personable nature, adaptability, and creative problem solving.
We ask that all those whose lives have been touched by America celebrate her life by sharing stories with those you meet of her joy and eccentricities, just as she did. Keep her spirit alive by learning a new skill, researching something maybe a bit too much, and helping a friend. America, we love and miss you.
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Musu Murray
August 8, 2025
Thank You From the Family of America Murray
To all of you who gave us words of encouragement, comfort, and prayers; who were present at the funeral; who were able to help us along this painful and sudden journey; and those who were there with us all from a distance, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Erica´s passing was and still is truly the hardest moment for all of us, not just the family. She was a wonderful person with wonderful people around her. From those who knew her since childhood to those who got the chance to say hi to her down the hall, thank you for being in her life.
She brought out the best in people with the light and love she possessed, and we were honored to have you all in attendance on social media, the forum on WhatsApp, and the funeral service. We, the family, were honored to witness the outpouring of love you gave back to her.
From the bottom of our hearts, and Erica´s, thank you and we love you all.
Musu Murray
August 8, 2025
Thank You From the Family of America Murray
To all of you who gave us words of encouragement, comfort, and prayers; who were present at the funeral; who were able to help us along this painful and sudden journey; and those who were there with us all from a distance, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Erica´s passing was and still is truly the hardest moment for all of us, not just the family. She was a wonderful person with wonderful people around her. From those who knew her since childhood to those who got the chance to say hi to her down the hall, thank you for being in her life.
She brought out the best in people with the light and love she possessed, and we were honored to have you all in attendance on social media, the forum on WhatsApp, and the funeral service. We, the family, were honored to witness the outpouring of love you gave back to her.
From the bottom of our hearts, and Erica´s, thank you, and we love you all.
Kurt Goldstein
August 2, 2025
Erica perry
August 2, 2025
My deepest sympathies Eunice and family
Love you always Erica Perry
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Ann Murray
July 31, 2025
FROM GRANDMA BOSTON
I met my granddaughter America at Logan Airport in August 1989. She was almost two years old when she and her mother took the escalator down from the airport immigration processing center to the crowded first floor waiting area. It had been an arduous 20 hour journey involving several cancellations and flight delays between Sierra Leone, London, and Boston.
Despite my unfamiliar white face, America came right into my arms when I reached out to her. Instantly there was a strong connection between us which is stored in my heart today alongside recollections of how much America was her own person.
When America was age seven, one of her friends at the community swimming pool asked why I had so many red marks on my shoulders, America simply replied, "Oh, those are just something old white people get."
On another occasion at Disney World, America was running ahead of my husband and me as we headed down Main Street to catch the ferry boat back to our hotel. A young couple, seeing no brown-skinned adults nearby, asked her if she needed help.
America stopped short, put her hands on her hips, and told them,"My mother is black, my father is white, and I´m their brown kid. I´m down here with my white grandma and grandpa right over there."
Although the couple looked somewhat embarrassed, there was no animosity on America´s part-she was just telling them the facts.
The three of them had a long conversation on the boat back, which ended with the woman giving America a hug and her husband expressing his thanks "for making the ride so interesting."
For her whole life America let you know exactly where she stood. Although there is a big ache in my heart right now, I am grateful that same heart is also full of so many memories that make me smile.
taft murray
July 30, 2025
taft murray
July 30, 2025
Grandma and grandpa will never forget you.
Kim Gibson
July 22, 2025
Murray Family you continue to be in my thoughts and prayers. It was a complete shock to learn of America's passing. Her obituary is a wonderful tribute to America. Musa - thank you for sharing the photo of the two of you. That is the smile I remember seeing on America's face each time I saw her. Her smile, her radiance, and her devotion to her work - America herself - will be missed at Clemson!
Katie Lloyd (Polovino)
July 18, 2025
America, I was just thinking about you and had the urge to type your name in google and found out about your passing. You were one of the kindest souls. You introduced me to my love of Thai tea and Pad Thai. You always had a way to make me laugh, and introduced me to so many other fun things. Its been 15 years since I've seen you but I still talk about you often. I'm really sorry to hear that your light is no longer in this world.
Gracie Carlson
July 14, 2025
America brought such warmth and light into every interaction, no matter how small. Her kindness and presence were felt deeply and will be missed. I´ll always remember building the tallest (and maybe least structurally sound) spaghetti tower with her at our team retreat. I was new to the group, and she welcomed me without hesitation. Wishing peace and comfort to her family, friends, and all who were lucky enough to know her.
Mary Gildersleeve
July 14, 2025
America - you were such a joy to be around! May you be at peace and know just how loved you are!
Sophia Parker
July 10, 2025
America the beautiful! It is hard to believe that you are gone. That your positive energy is no longer with us. It has been at least 20 years since I last heard your voice, saw you smile, or given you a hug. You were one of my best friends and I wish that we never drifted apart. I always thought of you my dear friend. I would wonder how you were doing. I wished that you were still creating new memories with us. My heart breaks for those that had the honor of knowing the woman you became. My heart breaks for your family. And my heart breaks for all of us that lost knowing the incredible person you were! May you rest well my friend!
Heather Dromm
July 9, 2025
A beautiful soul and pure joy to work with at Clemson! When she joined our team 15 months ago, I often joked that she had knocked me out of 1st place for the Happy to Be Here Club. America fit right in with our team and I learned so much from her on and off "the clock." America is sorely missed already and I'll honor her memory by spreading that joy with others. Love and prayers to her family as you walk through your grief journey.
David Murray
July 9, 2025
Thank you for this wonderful memorial to my daughter. It is comforting to know that she was so loved.
Karen McCauley
July 9, 2025
America was an exceptional work colleague and friend to many of us at the Clemson University Foundation. Her enthusiasm for life emulated through her bold smile and exuberant laughter. Her work at Clemson mattered - she helped many along the way. We miss her but will keep our memories close. Our sincere prays and condolences are offer to her friends and family.
June Doss (Ulrich)
July 9, 2025
I remember the dance we got ready for, can´t remember which one, the sleepovers, the times we hung out outside of school with our group of friends. Time got away and life took its own course. I never stopped thinking about her.
Mia Tensley
July 9, 2025
America was a true testament to the journey from student to valued colleague. She continued her education journey at TCTC, later joined our staff, and then continued her impactful career at Clemson University.
I still remember her joy and appreciation when she shared with me that she was to be employed at Clemson University.
America was consummately professional and incredibly efficient. She had an extraordinary ability to troubleshoot situations in an impossibly short amount of time. More than her remarkable skills, she was always full of energy and positivity.
She will be so deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her across both institutions.
Alisha Fowler
July 9, 2025
"America", such a bold life and spirit that will be missed greatly but not forgotten at Clemson University Foundation. She would enter a room or meeting space with a smile no matter the situation; Never hesitant to introduce herself and always exemplified a great benefit in her work and to her colleagues. Sincere condolences to her family& friends.
Tim Jones
July 9, 2025
The word that continues to come to mind when I hear America's name is 'joy'. She genuinely demonstrated what it looks like for someone to share kindness and joy with every person. We miss America deeply. I will do my best to honor her by demonstrating more joy in the way that I live. What a delightful person and a wonderful soul. She loved life and loved people, and it has been a gift to know her.
Musu Murray
July 9, 2025
Mary Frances Csernak
July 9, 2025
America was always a ray of sunshine. She was always sharing funny videos with the Team to help us get over our mid-day slump. America always went out of her way to invite her team members to lunch or tea. I will miss her laugh, thoughtfulness, and collaboration. I will also miss talking about music we love, drinking tea, and talking about our wacky animals! America was truly a special person. I am so fortunate to have gotten to know her and she will be deeply missed.
Clemson IT Team
July 9, 2025
She brought a special light to our office-always arriving with a smile and a genuine enthusiasm for the work we shared. Her passion for her projects was evident in everything she did, and her commitment to professionalism set an example for us all.
More than just a talented team member, she was a kind and joyful presence whose positivity lifted those around her. Her absence is felt deeply, but her spirit, work ethic, and warmth will remain with us.
America was a cherished member of our work family whose love for her team and love for her job made a lasting impact
"Coach" Pamela Altstatt
July 9, 2025
I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of America Murray. I had the privilege of having her as a student in my Spring 2021 class, which met on Mondays and Wednesdays at 12:20 p.m. From the very first day, America brought a positive spirit and genuine kindness into the classroom that made a lasting impression on both her peers and myself.
America was always willing to help others. Her generous heart and eagerness to lift those around her were evident in everything she did-whether offering support to a classmate or volunteering to assist with technical challenges. She even expressed interest in interning for my lab the following semester, simply because she wanted to continue supporting students. That desire to serve and empower others speaks volumes about the kind of person she was.
I also had the joy of seeing America thrive in our IT lab. Her confidence and competence were matched only by the warmth she brought into the space. I will never forget the smile she brought to my face when she would walk into another one of my classes just in time to troubleshoot a technical issue-always with grace and good humor.
America was a bright light. Unforgettable. Her absence will be deeply felt by all of us who were lucky enough to know her, even for a short time. I will always think of her fondly and am grateful to have been a small part of her journey.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences. My thoughts are with all who loved her and continue to carry her memory.
With sympathy,
"Coach" Pamela Altstatt
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