David Dale Murdoch

A funeral service for David Dale Murdoch, 85, of Cleburne, will be held at 10:00 AM on Friday, January 9, 2026, at The Heights church, located at 1315 E FM 4, Cleburne, Texas 76031 with Minister Mike Barber officiating. Interment will follow in the Pilgrim Rest No. 2 Cemetery in Golden, Texas with Wade Chaney, Richard Hogan, Scott Murdoch, Harrison Murdoch, Matt Murdoch, Will Murdoch serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Jack Wylie, Greg Harmon, Fernando Rodriguez and Randell Slaughter. There will be a time of visitation for family and friends from 6:00-8:00 PM in the Crosier-Pearson Cleburne Funeral Home Chapel, located at 512 N. Ridgeway Dr., Cleburne on Thursday, January 8, 2026. 

The family requests that memorial donations be made to the David Dale Murdoch Scholarship at Pinnacle Bank,or to https://www.thechisholmtrailoutdoormuseum.com, or to mikebarber.org in lieu of floral tributes for the service.

David Dale Murdoch, born on August 6, 1940, in Goose Creek (Baytown), Texas, passed away peacefully on January 3, 2026, in Fort Worth, Texas. His life was a testament to deep commitment, generosity, and an unwavering passion for service to his community.

David devoted a significant portion of his life to the Johnson County Sheriff Office, where he held the esteemed position of Senior Chaplain. His leadership and compassionate disposition touched many lives, providing comfort and guidance in times of need. He was also the CEO and founder of the Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum, a role that facilitated an appreciation for history and culture in the region, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.

His remarkable contributions were recognized through various accolades including being named Cleburne Times Review Man of the Year and Cleburne Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year. Additionally, he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy of Western Artists, celebrating his dedication to both the arts and the community.

Not only was David a devoted community leader, but he was also an accomplished author, having written four books that inspire and educate. His interests extended to the equestrian world, where he bought and introduced the first Egyptian Arabian horses with distinguished bloodlines from around the globe. An avid fisherman, David cherished the moments spent in nature, always finding peace by the water.

David is remembered not only for his numerous achievements but also for his kindness, integrity, and the positive impact he had on everyone who crossed his path.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Frank David Murdoch and Dessie Nola Willis, and sister, Jo Ann Murdoch Taylor.

Survivors include his wife, Carrie Murdoch; son, David Criss Murdoch and wife Cindy; daughter, Jan Poston husband Ronny; son, Kevin Scott Murdoch and wife Lisa; stepdaughters, Jessica Lynn Thompson, and Amanda Croft and husband Jon;4 grandchildren, 9 great-grandchildren, and his dog, Shep.

David Dale Murdoch leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew him and follow in his footsteps. His spirit of service and love for humanity will forever be celebrated.