Donald R. Murray

Donald Richard Murray, lovingly known as "Pop," passed peacefully on September 10, 2025, at the age of 75, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born and raised near the Long Island Sound, Don carried with him a deep love for the water, especially boating and fishing. For the past 40 years, he made his home in Durham, New York, where he built a life filled with family, laughter, and the simple joys of everyday moments. Don is survived by his son Richard Murray (Nichola); his daughters Barbara Kuhn (Jayme) and Grace Robinson (Damien); and his beloved grandchildren Connor, Logan, and James Kuhn; Ronan, Finn, and Aoife Murray; Brielle Robinson; and his only great-grandchild, Sunny Kuhn. He is also survived by Linda, Lindsay and Matt Wayman, Donna, Louis, Patrick and Alondra DiDomenico, Charles and Kathy Albertson, his sister Joan Lavin, as well as many nieces, nephews, and countless friends. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 46 years, Deborah Murray; his sweet, compassionate daughter Amanda Murray; his parents Edward and Ruth Murray and his brothers Edward and Thomas Murray. Don was a dedicated employee of the New York State Department of Transportation, where he worked faithfully for over 30 years. Yet his true passion was not found in his career but in helping those around him. If you ever needed advice, a hand with a project, or simply a listening ear, Don was the one you could count on. Known as a collector of "everything," he delighted in yard sales and striking a good bargain. Don loved everything outdoors-whether it was hunting in the woods, casting a line in the Catskill Creek, or simply tinkering away in his barn. He and his wife Deborah could often be found side by side at local streams and ponds, coffee cup in hand and a cooler of bait nearby. It was in these quiet places that they passed on their love of nature and fishing to their grandchildren, creating treasured memories that will last for generations. Don will also be remembered for his sense of humor. He loved hearing and telling jokes, always ready with a story or a laugh to share. Though he was often described as a "big guy," his heart was even bigger-overflowing with kindness, generosity, and love. A Celebration of Don's Life will take place on Wednesday, September 17th from 12:00 pm to 4:00 p.m. at The Shamrock House in East Durham, New York. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather, share a story, a memory, or a joke, and honor the remarkable man who touched so many lives. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the waters he loved, the laughter he inspired, and the family and friends he cherished. To leave condolences for the family please visit the tribute wall above. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Richards Funeral Home in Cairo.