John Joseph Murray

1935 - 2025

John Joseph Murray
06/24/1935 - 06/06/2025
Celebrating the life of fourth generation, San Francisco native son, John Joseph Murray, who blessed us with his presence on June 24,1935 and left us with cherished memories on June 6, 2025. Son of the late Kathleen Mary Tierney and Eugene Francis Murray, Jr. Loving husband of Maryanne Kavanaugh Murray for 67 years. Devoted father of Katherine (Tom) Garcia, Dennis (Karen), John (Felicidad), Jane (Anne) and Julia. Proud grandfather of Joseph (Maryana) Garcia, Thomas Garcia and Connor Murray. John is preceded in death by his brother and sister-in-law, Eugene and Esther Murray, and sisters Mary (Alan) Helseth, Kathryn Murray and Dorthy Sypal. John is beloved by numerous nieces and nephews: Murrays, Helseths, Roemers and Haskells. Dear brother-in-law to Linda and Bill Haskell; and the late Joan and Bob Roemer.
A true San Franciscan, John was born on Utah Street in "The Mission". He attended grammar school at Most Holy Redeemer where he made lifelong friends. He went on to St. Ignatius High School where he played soccer and wrote for "Inside SI", graduating as a loyal member of "the great class of 1953". John continued his education at the University of San Francisco graduating in 1957. While at USF, John was the Sports Editor and then the Managing Editor for the "Foghorn". As a Senior, John served as the University's Athletic News Director which meant traveling with the 1957 National Championship Basketball Team, experiencing first-hand the thrill of victory.
At the age of 16, he met his future wife, Maryanne Kavanaugh, and they were married six years later in 1958. Shortly thereafter, John began his Naval Intelligence Officer's career. After completing his military commitment, he went on to serve the City as a member of the SFPD. When he passed the California State Bar in 1966, he started his practice of the law. A career that lasted over 50 years to which he was dedicated and loved.
John prided himself on being a true native San Franciscan. He was a loyal Giants, 49er, Warriors and USF Dons' fan. He was a dedicated supporter of the "N" Judah, his daily transportation to and from his Market Street office.
John and Maryanne were members of Holy Name Parish where their 5 children attended grammar school and where the Murrays were active for many years.
He was a member of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre, a Knight of Malta and served on many nonprofit boards. Along the way, he was acknowledged with the St. Vincent De Paul Brennan Award, the Cathedral's Assumpta Award and the Hibernian Newman Man of the Year Award.
In addition to work and all his activities, John always found time to travel with family and good friends. Every trip was a learning experience, an adventure and always lots of fun. Considering all his worldwide travels, John's favorite place was always with his family at their home along the Russian River on Fitch Mountain. The River House was the site of many memorable occasions and where John became a recreational bricklayer, the self- proclaimed Family "Sorry" Champion and was always in for a Pedro game.
After John closed his office on Market Street, he continued his love of learning at the Fromm Institute on the USF campus. For him, it was like being back home. John loved his Wife, his Family, his Friends, his Church and his Country and he not only loved life, he loved living. He was a man of wit, wisdom and caring. He will be missed.
A Mass will be held in John's honor at St. Ignatius Church on Parker Avenue on Friday, June 27, 2025. Visitation 9:45 to 10:45 am. Mass at 11:00 am.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to The St Vincent de Paul Society of San Francisco, 1175 Howard Street, SF, CA 94103 or to the charity of your choice.