Jeffrey Thomas Murdock

Jeffrey Thomas Murdock Eugene - Jeffrey Thomas Murdock passed away on March 17, 2023 at the age of 62. He was born on December 15, 1961 in Walnut Creek, California to Esther Walton Murdock and Thomas Lee Murdock. Jeff grew up in Coos Bay, Oregon. He graduated from Marshfield High School in 1979. Jeff loved the Oregon Coast and during his time growing up there excelled in sports, journalism, theater and debate. The neighborhood basketball hoop was his favorite place and central to the heart of Kingwood Avenue. Jeff played there constantly, always ready to organize or join a game with the many neighborhood players. He loved to be around people and never shied from an opportunity to try something new. Throughout his life Jeff loved a beautiful day, a bike ride and good food.

Jeff graduated from Lewis and Clark College in 1983 and the University of Oregon School of Law in 1987. Jeff was involved in the Oregon legal community for more than 35 years. After 12 years as a lawyer, working primarily in Douglas and Lane Counties, he became a legal assistant at Public Defender Services of Lane County, a position he held until his unexpected passing. He was a cherished coworker at PDSLC, and always put his clients and their needs first. He took a particular interest in helping clients whose incarceration affected their ability to care for their animals, and it is suspected that many a paycheck went directly to dog and cat food expenses for client pets. Jeff never let what someone was accused of stop him from treating people with respect and compassion.

Jeff is survived by his sister, Heather Murdock. He is also survived by his beloved nephews and niece, Quin Wogmon, Owen Wogmon and Jorie Wogmon. Jeff will be remembered by his niece and two nephews as the uncle ("Uncle Buff") who always wanted to play and was an enthusiastic supporter of all their interests. The uncle who taught Quin to ride a bike. The uncle who cheered at every soccer match, basketball game and track meet. The uncle who looked for fossils and shells tirelessly at Fossil Point and always advocated for them to have even more pets. Jeff was a lover of animals - especially his sweet cats. Memorial gifts may be made to Jeff's favorite charity: S.A.R.A.'s Treasures (Shelter Animal Resource Alliance), 871 River Road, Eugene, OR 97404. https://www.sarastreasures.org

A Reception and Celebration of Life to be held at 11am, May 6 at Public Defender Services of Lane County, located at 180 E 11th Ave, Eugene, OR 97401