Add a Memory
Send Flowers
Make a Donation
Maria Murray Obituary
Raleigh
Maria Gombatz Murray, of Raleigh passed away suddenly from an accidental fall on Christmas Day, 2012. Maria was the widow of husband, Dee, a longtime band member of Elton John.
She was survived by son, Ashley, 25 and daughter, Jenna, 21. Maria was born on January 19, 1958 to Robert & Ruth Gombatz, twin of sister Lisa and sister of Karl, Frank & Kurt. Her greatest joys in life were her children and traveling the world with her husband and sister.
Maria will be remembered as a loving and wonderful mother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, December 29, 2012 in the Wynne Center, 300 St. Mary's Street, Raleigh. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.brownwynne.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Barbara Oates
January 22, 2014
We are so shocked and saddened to find out that Maria has passed away - and hope her family will contact us. They have our address.
With our love, Barbara and Peter Oates - Dee's brother and sister-in-law.
Benny
January 4, 2014
Hello this is Benny from Nashville, Tn. I was leaving Maria a message on Dee's memorial page and discovered that Maria had passed.
I drove limo for Dee and Maria around during the Sasoon tour in the 80's. I will never forget how nice they were to me during that time. I think about them quite often. God Bless the Gombatz family.
L
December 19, 2013
"The Sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in its net of wonder forever"
- Jacques Cousteau
Maria, I am thinking about you today.
Gayle (Osborne) Marshall
September 15, 2013
To Ashley, Jenna, Lisa and all of Maria's family...I just learned today of this very sad passing. There are so many memories of the times I shared in Maria's life years ago. My heartfelt thoughts are to the family for your loss.
How you can show support
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
lisa rader
July 1, 2013
I just found out about Maria today from Eddie Truelove. I fondly remember her as a fun and charismatic friend,always surrounded by people, and a beacon of light with her smile. When we were in high school, we would meet sometimes at Cameron Village on our bicycles and either go to the "Underground" and look around in the hippie stores, or head back to her house for something to drink. Though I had not seen her since high school, I did keep up with her thru friends.
Lisa, I am so sorry for your loss. I have thought about you and Maria quite often over the years. I will enjoy going thru the photos as I remember her charm and personally.
As the ocean is never full of water, so is the heart never full of love” - unknown author
Barbara Carney
June 24, 2013
Lisa, Price and I just learned of Maria's passing today from Bob Mueller. We are so heartsick and sad. It brought me joy to see the photos. We have precious memories of Dee and Maria and all the band mates.
Teresa Phelps-Fulford
January 30, 2013
Lisa,
I was so sad to hear of Maria's passing. I know you two were so close. We lost Freda a couple of years ago. I miss her so much. I wish that you and your family the very best in this time of loss.
robin bosselmann
January 28, 2013
lisa,i was so saddened to here of your loss of your sister,you two were so close.Not many people are lucky enough to experience such a bond.I know she , is in heaven,we will all meet again...your childhood friend robin bosselmann.910 233 8254 miss you
Kevin Gorham
January 13, 2013
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Gombatz and Murray families. Maria was a sweetheart that lit up a room with her charm and personality whenever she entered. Mr. Gombatz helped coach our little league football team that Frank played on. And fortunately he recruited two of the prettiest cheerleaders in Raleigh, Maria and Lisa. My heart goes out to you all.
Mike Inabinett
January 8, 2013
To all the family I am so sorry for your loss. I know she will be greatly missed. God Bless and may He always keep you all in His Love, Mercy and Grace.
Mindy (Nance) Augusto
January 3, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the Gombatz family. I'll always remember Maria's beautiful smile and contagious laugh. Maria & Lisa and I had some crazy & memorable times during our days at Broughton & the State Soda Shop. Godspeed Maria!
Miquel Sala
January 3, 2013
My thoughts and prayers for Maria.I am deeply sad about this. God bless her and the greatest Dee Murray. A big hug and comfort to the family
Rocky and Rhonda Tew
January 3, 2013
Gombatz Family.....Rocky and I have such heavy hearts for the entire family. The love and "stories" are priceless and something to hold on to during this difficult time. We love you and have all in our prayer.
Robin Hodge
January 2, 2013
This is to Nigel. We all will miss Mary Lou.
Robin Hodge
January 2, 2013
I remember meeting Maria & Lisa in 1978 in M.B.S.C.We clicked,next thing I knew I was living in Raleigh with the whole family.Maria was one of a kind and will never forge that beatiful smile and those two beatiful kids she and Dee had Ashley & Jenna.And Dee loved that woman until he passed,I bet you he and GOD were the ones that opened the doors of HEAVEN to let her in .Dee was missed every day by those that knew him. I loved them both and will miss them until the day I walk thru those doors.GOD SPEED to you both,I love you dearly and always will.And to those that they left behind,I love you dearly,mostly you Ms.Gombatz,you were my second mom.I love all of you dearly.Hey Karl how many times did you have to get me out of something that she got me into?I love you Ashley and Jenna,you would have made her so proud of you,I know I was !Sweet dreams baby girl!!!!!!1-843-929-3923, if you need anything,I love you 2 very much.
Micki Jones
January 2, 2013
I moved from Raleigh 25 years ago, but remember our wonderful days at Broughton High School (class of '76). Maria was part of my best memories there. She went to great lengths to keep her classmates amused, particularly her antics on the basketball court! There is something endearing about those who keep us all smiling. To Maria's family - I am so sorry for the loss of someone so dear and know you will always cherish the joy she brought to your lives. My best regards.
Tim Leith
January 2, 2013
To Karl and Frank and the whole Gombatz family: Over many miles and many years I still remember Maria as so charming and truly lovely. I am so sorry for your loss.
Tim Leith
Chip Dillon
January 1, 2013
My sympathies to the Gombatz and Murray families. I have many memories of growing up near Maria and her siblings, from the football games in the lot alongside Glenwood Avenue to being classmates at Myrtle Underwood.
Betty Brandt Williamson
December 31, 2012
To the Murray and Gombatz families:
I was shocked and saddened to learn of Maria's passing. I grew up in the next block of Glenwood Avenue and remember playing on the playground and in the neighborhood with all the Gombatz children. I remember making Kurt sick on the tire swing and walking barefoot on the chainlink fence. While I have not kept in contact since my family moved from there, I remember the fun times in the neighborhood. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
doug wilkes
December 31, 2012
i wish the best for the family. frank and myself are 14 days apart, and are lifelong friends. my mother certainly thought a lot of ms. gombatz, and maria and lisa favor her. i think she is a former miss raleigh. i remember johnny schell taking maria and i and home from school in the 10th grade(maria in the 11th, johnny in the 12th). johnny would make sure maria arrived home safely, then might would slow down when he turned the corner to "let me out". maria has many friends.
December 31, 2012
So sadden to hear of this lose. I remember Maria from Myrtle Underwood like it was yesterday. My prayers are with her family.
Frank Haynes Raleigh N.C.
Lisa and Maria, Carolyn and my little sister, Angela
Carolyn (Sorrell) Zahnow
December 30, 2012
Mrs. Gombatz, I know the pain of losing a child as I did in 2005 when my only son died. After we moved back to NC, I wanted to get in touch with all of you to catch up. I missed my childhood friends and after a death, it seems more important to do so. I am sorry I will not be able to experience the joy of Maria now but hope to learn of her life via you or Lisa or Karl or Frank. Peace to you all as well as Maria's kids.
Terry Lightfoot
December 30, 2012
To the Murray family - our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you, we have many happy memories of time at the Falls River pool together and swim team with our kids - Chris and Meredith with Ashley and Jenna, Rest in Peace Maria - the Lightfoots
December 29, 2012
Our prayers are with the Gombatz family as well as with the Murray clan! Maria will be missed, but not forgotten! Now she can rest in eternal peace with her husband Dee, but more importantly with here eternal father, Jesus Christ who has far better plans for her than this world could imagine.
John 3:16- For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
God Bless Maria!!!!
My deepest sympathy, Lane Rairden
Johnny Schell
December 29, 2012
The Schell and Gombatz families will always share a deep connection - we grew up together. Maria was my first love, though I never had the nerve to tell her. Karl,Lisa,Frank,Kurt, I'm so sorry - love to you all - Maria, rest in peace
DeeAnn, Jamey, Matt, Morgan & Uncle Pat
December 29, 2012
We were extremely saddened to hear of Maria's accident. Please know ALL of you are in our thoughts and prayers. Wish we could be in NC with you to share wonderful memories! Love to the Murray/Gumbatz/Henderson families!
Liz Eggleston
December 29, 2012
My heart goes out to the Gombatz and Murray family. May God give you all peace during thie difficult time.
Bryant Stoneham
December 29, 2012
Very moved by the service today. I still remember meeting Lisa and Maria-just teenagers, always together, so beautiful, so sweet and fun-loving. All of us boys fell in love with them both.
Sheri Green
December 29, 2012
I have not seen Maria (or Lisa) since our days together at Myrtle Underwood Elementary and in the Hayes Barton neighborhood. But seeing the names of classmates who have signed this guest book brings back good childhood memories. My sympathy goes out to Maria's family and friends, and especially to Lisa in the loss of her sister. May you all be comforted in the days ahead by your wonderful memories of Maria.
December 29, 2012
Dear Jenna, Ashley, Lisa and family...thinking of you at this very sad time and sending our sincerest condolences and much love to you all.
Clive, Aaron and Lara Franks.
The Godwin Family
December 29, 2012
Ashley & Jenna,
We are thinking of you today and praying for you and your family. Your Mother loved you with all of her heart and was so very proud of both of you. We will pray for comfort and strength for you today and in the days to come.
December 29, 2012
I grew up with Maria and Lisa and the Gombatz family, my family lived around the corner from them. My thoughts, prayers and sympathy go out to the Gombatz family, friends and all who know and love Maria.
Warm regards, Virginia Owen
Cindy (Williams) Franks
December 29, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the family of Maria. I went to Jr. High and High School with both Maria and Lisa.
Nan Maples
December 29, 2012
Ashley, Holding all of you in our thoughts and prayers..The Maples Family
Thresa (Pressley) Henderson
December 29, 2012
So sorry to hear about the passing of Maria. While I did not know her well, I knew of her and her family through personal close friends. I'm sure her passing is tough for them . My prayers go out to her family and friends.
Tambra Morrell
December 29, 2012
I am so sorry for everyone in the Gombatz family for your loss! I haven't seen Maria in quite a few years but she was always a great friend and will be missed a lot! My Condolences to the entire Gombatz and Murray family. Love to all of you from The Morrell Family in Florida!
The Quirk and White Families
December 29, 2012
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you today and always. May God's grace be with you.
Barry & Beverly Benson
December 29, 2012
Lisa and Family, We are very sorry to hear of Maria's passing
David Moore
December 29, 2012
My prayers and thoughts are with your family. I am very sorry for your loss.
Brenda Rochelle
December 29, 2012
My heart goes out to each and every one of you during this difficult time. I have very fond memories of the school days we spent cheering for our junior high and high school teams. I know your hearts are heavy, but GOD always knows best. Look to HIM for comfort and strength. Praying for your entire family.
December 29, 2012
Ruth, Karl, Frank, Lisa, Kurt, Ashley, and Jenna. We are so saddened to hear of Maria's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort in knowing how much you are loved by so many friends.
Beth Kelly Holding and Henry Kelly
Carolyn Hanks
December 28, 2012
Jenna , we are so so sorry for your loss. Your family is in our prayers. Love Carolyn, Patrick and Ryan Hanks
Jenny Glasscock Jones
December 28, 2012
I met Maria many years ago. I am so sorry to hear of her passing. My prayers are with her children and family.
Carolyn Hanks
December 28, 2012
Jenna, we are so so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in our prayers. Love, Ms. Hanks, Patrick and Ryan
December 28, 2012
I am so saddened to hear of Maria's death. Lots of old good memories are thought of. Mrs Gombatz was such a role model for me to become the Nurse I have become. I remember staying over there and Ruth would say" Get off the phone. I'm on call" I so relate to that now! Lisa, my heart goes out to you as it does to the rest of the family. My prayers of peace are with you all. Jamie Hinnant Becker
Anne (Hood) Deal
December 28, 2012
I remember Maria well from high school. Even though I haven't seen Maria or Lisa in many years I still often think of the fun we had. Maria's family is in my thoughts and prayers. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Melinda M Hisle
December 28, 2012
Our hearts are broken. My twin sister, Melissa, and I met the Gombatz twins when we first moved from Arizona to North Carolina. We became fast friends at Myrtle Underwood and in our neighborhood. Over the years we crossed paths and would remind each other of times we had spent together. We will miss Maria. We have thought of both of you so many times. With such sympathy, Love Melinda and Melissa Meek
Don Poole
December 28, 2012
Ms. Gombatz, Frank, Lisa, Karl and family. So sorry for your loss. You guys all bring back great memories! I will be thinking of you during this difficult time.
Michael Moreno
December 28, 2012
Was very saddened to hear of your loss. My deepest sympathy to the family.
December 28, 2012
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Maria. Sincerely, Anita Nyberg
Kay Hinnant Dowd
December 28, 2012
As Leslie's big sister, Kay Hinnant, I know Lisa and Maria were fixtures at our house on Sunset. They were a huge comfort to Leslie when our mom passed away when Leslie was just 12 yrs old. We have both always remembered Maria and Lisa with love and laughter. My prayers are with her family.
Kathy Currie (Smart)
December 28, 2012
Such wonderful times in our day. Lisa, I am praying for you.
Sandy Ellington Bridgers
December 28, 2012
I find this so difficult to know what to say here. I haven't seen Maria or Lisa in many years but some of the best times of my life was spent with them. As teenagers and young adults we were always together. She will be so missed. She was a great person and had such a big heart. My heart is broken. My condolences go out to the entire family.
J.L. Kovach
December 28, 2012
Very saddened to hear about Maria. She was a great spirit and would always have a smile on her face. I just can't imagine something like this happening, and on Christmas day. Thoughts and prayers go out to both the Gombatz and the Murray families.
Ellen Vick Norris
December 28, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Karen Dillinger
December 28, 2012
Ruth,
I am so very sorry to learn of your tremendous loss. I will be praying that you and your family will find peace, comfort, and strength during this sad time.
Donna (Davis) Everhart
December 28, 2012
To the Gombatz and Murray families... I am so very sad for your unexpected loss...my family's thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Marc Blackwell
December 28, 2012
So sorry to hear of this tragedy and your loss. I am an old family friend, and knew Maria a very long time ago. Thinking of you all in this time of loss. Peace and love to you all.
Deborah Boles (White)
December 28, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of Maria's passing!! I went to high school with her, and knew her for years after. Have not seen here for many years, but know she was a very fun and loving person!!! My condolences to the family!!!
Lori Murphy
December 28, 2012
Sending peace and strength to the Murray and Gombatz families.
Kim Lane Hobbs
December 28, 2012
I am so sad to hear this shocking news. I met amd fell in love with Maria & Lisa and the Gombatz family when I was in the fifth grade during their summer visit in Sampson County with their aunt and uncle. We enjoyed many fun times and I was forever touched by their zeal and zest for life. Though those years have long passed, I still have sweet memories and will always love Maria and her entire family and I share your tears and heavy heart, but find comfort in knowing she is now with the love of her life, Dee.
Love,
Kim
[email protected]
910.249.0500
Lori Murphy
December 28, 2012
Prayers for peace and strength for the whole family today.
Mary Faye Beasley
December 28, 2012
Ruth, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
Thomas Beckwith
December 28, 2012
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
December 28, 2012
Lisa, so sorry to hear about Maria, My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family. Has been many years since I've seen either of you but i never forgot the good times we all had riding around Roseboro. Waylon Mitchell
Jan Lewis
December 28, 2012
Ashley, so sad to learn of this loss. I remember your beautiful mom and her kindness. I am thinking of you and Jenna.
Jan Lewis (Meaghan Lewis' mom)
December 28, 2012
In 1973, I me this crazy girl named Maria, in Biology class at Broughton wearing Levis 501 jeans, flannel shirt, and construction boots! She had a twin, Lisa, who seem to go everywhere with us. We were a crew, Maria, Lisa, Jane, Jan, and myself. We shared a lot in the early years of high school and in our twenties! Great times, good friends.
My heart and prayers with all her family, her children, and closest friends. Love you Maria, rest in peace now---Kathryn Freeman
Anna Ellerson
December 28, 2012
My prayers and thoughts are with your family!! Maria was such a sweetie!! So glad to know she was blessed while she was here with us!
Carla and Gray Glover
December 28, 2012
Dearest Ashley and Jenna,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your entire family. You two were the twinkle in your mother's beautiful eyes and the light of her life! Everyone who knew your mom knew how much she adored her children. She will live in your hearts forever until you meet again one day. God Bless you with Peace and Comfort in the days ahead...
Cecilia Thomas
December 28, 2012
It is with heartfelt sympathy that I express my condolences to your family at this very sad time. My mother, Annie M. Scarborough, taught Maria in elementary school and I was lucky enough to meet her and her sister Lisa. I always enjoyed the time I got to spend with Maria. What a true gift from God she was, and I am extremely sorry for your family's loss.
Cecilia Scarborough Thomas
Bridget Stell Caulder
December 28, 2012
My heart goes out to the Gombatz and Murray family. You all are in my thoughts and prayers and especially her children, mother and siblings. Please let us know if we can do anything!
Cathy (Upchurch) Dickerson
December 28, 2012
With heartfelt sympathy, I light this candle in the memory of my childhood friend!
Pam Lewis Willard
December 28, 2012
My thoguths and prayers are with the entire family. I loved her when we were growing up, especially at the pool. May God give you peace and grace during this time of grief.
Jill Davis
December 28, 2012
I have some wonderful memories of Marie and Lisa from when we were cheerleaders in high school. One of the best times in my life thanks to the both of you. I wish we could have stayed in touch. I am so sad to hear of Maria's passing, very sad. Maria has a beautiful spirit and I will always remember how much she made me laugh. I wish I could be there to celebrate her life. My prayers, thoughts and wishes are with her family.
Cathy (Upchurch) Dickerson
December 28, 2012
I send my deepest condolences to Maria's family and friends. I grew up down the road from Maria and have many fond memories of our times together during our middle school years. I know she was greatly loved and will be missed by many!
David & Lisa Marconi
December 28, 2012
We are so sorry for your loss. May God be with Maria's family at this time.
Jennifer Jones
December 28, 2012
Jenna,
Our hearts go out to you and your family. We would like to send our deepest condolences. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers and We love you!
The Pollard and Jones families
Wayne, Jennifer, Jo Ann and Gail
Shirley Carelli
December 28, 2012
My thoughts and prayers are with the family, I was a neighbor of the Gumbatz family and remember watching Maria and Dee playing in the parking lot of the Fall,s condos. such a great loss.
Jane Andersen
December 27, 2012
My friend, my friend. Oh what to say. We grew up together as one in a bond that was never to be broken. So many memories, I think no other had more than you and I. My mind is a photobook of it all. Great children we had and shared together as a second generation of friends. Forever in my heart my Dear. Your friend, Jane
December 27, 2012
Maria is one of the nicest people I have ever known. I am so sorry to hear this sad news. Mike Knott
Kim Lewis
December 27, 2012
I am heartbroken for the Murray and Gombatz families. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Leslie Hinnant Kornegay
December 27, 2012
What a wonderful woman! Certain to be missed.
Leslie Hinnant Kornegay
December 27, 2012
My sympathy is with the entire Gombatz and Murray family. I am heartbroken to lose one of my best (you,too, Lisa) childhood friends. You will be missed.
Marige Lee
December 27, 2012
So sorry for this entimely loss to your family and children. My heart is broken for your family. Margie Fisher Lee
Kevin Bingley
December 27, 2012
Thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Maria at this sad time.
Lisa Odom
December 27, 2012
Jenna and family,
Our thoughts are with you and many prayers are being said for you right now.
Our deepest sympathy,
The Odom family
Peewee Watson
December 27, 2012
My sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Maria.
Showing 1 - 88 of 88 results
300 Saint Mary's Street, Raleigh, NC 27605
Make a Donation
in Maria Murray's name
How to support Maria's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Maria Murray's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
