Rita Jacqueline "Jackie" Murrah

Rita Jacqueline Wehrly Murrah of Castroville Texas passed away peacefully on October 22, 2025. She was 91. "Jackie" as her family and friends called her was born on May 21, 1934 in Dayton, Ohio. She was a loving mother to her daughter, Julie Ryczek (Alan) of Huntersville, North Carolina, and her son, Steven Tedford (Denise) of Castroville, Texas. She was also "The Best Granya" to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jackie most enjoyed her family and close friends. In her younger days, she enjoyed her summers in Creede, Colorado traveling with friends, golf, where she achieved the coveted hole-in-one, bowling, playing Bridge with her friends, and occasionally playing the slots. She graduated with honors from high school, was a Lieutenant on the drill team, and was a member in several clubs. After she raised Julie and Steve, she was employed as a legal secretary. She was voted NCO Wife of the Year at Whitman Air Force Base, MO. She simply loved life, family, and friends.

Jackie is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Mariel Carl; her husband, Thomas "Watt" Murrah; and stepson, Frank Murrah, all formerly of Castroville, Texas.

She leaves behind Julie Ryczek (Alan) and their three children, Jonathan Ryczek (Crystal) and their two daughters, Catherine and Caroline of Huntersville, NC, Gregory Ryczek (Courtney), and their son, Graham of Concord, NC, Alana Weldon (Aaron), and their two daughters, Aila and Adalyn of Huntersville, NC; her son, Steve Tedford (Denise) of Castroville, TX, his son, Denver Tedford (Kandis) of San Antonio, TX, their daughter, Lexi Tedford of Castroville, TX, stepson, Bailey Welch of San Antonio, TX; and her stepdaughter Kate Fowler (Cliff) of Devine, TX.

Jackie was a wonderful mother, wife, and friend. She looked only for the good in all, and never had a negative word to say about anyone. She believed in and had faith in Jesus Christ, knowing that He died to save us, and we rejoice in knowing she is in Heaven. We will miss her friendly smile, her cheerful personality, and her giving heart. May her memory be with us all until we meet again in Heaven.

Visitation will be Monday, November 10, 2025 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home in Castroville, Texas.

Memorials may be made in Jackie's memory to Moye Catholic Middle & High School or to St. Louis School Operational or charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. www.tondre-guinn.com