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Gilbert F. "Gil" Murray Sr.

Gilbert F. "Gil" Murray Sr. obituary, Richmond, VA

Gilbert Murray Obituary

MURRAY, Gilbert "Gil" F., Sr., Our Dad dreamed of heaven some months ago. He would later describe the beauty of this dream and his profound disappointment upon waking only to find he was still earthbound. On January 21, 2022, heaven became sweeter when Dad traveled home to be with his Lord and his family who had gone before. His passing was not due to COVID, but to his courageous battle with multiple myeloma; he was adamant the record be set straight. Dad was 88 years old.

His family included his daughters, Suzanne and Patsy; and his sons, Gil Jr. and Charles; along with his grandchildren, Kacie, Lindsay, Daulton, Travis and Elise. His great-grandchildren, Stella, Meredith and Ryan brought him much joy these last seven years and knew him as "Papa Chocolate" because of his love for Milton Hershey School and all things Hershey chocolate. His family meant everything to him. We always knew how much we were loved, and how proud he was.

He was fortunate to marry two wonderful women, Marlene and Estene. He lived his vows taking care of Marlene through breast and bone cancer and Estene through Alzheimer's. They were each in their own way perfect for him. His later years were spent with Patty, his world-wide travel companion, nightly news, Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune watching girlfriend. As he would say to us, I got the best one! As his health declined, Patty ran him to doctor appointments, out-patient surgeries and anything else that he thought he could hide from us. Their love was special and we are deeply indebted to her.

Dad did not want a service, but for people to remember him the last time they saw him: telling stories and jokes and giving love and chocolate.

Special thanks to the 5th floor nursing staff, technicians and doctors at Chippenham Hospital. They were truly our angels here on earth during his last week with us.

We're going to miss him.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Richmond Times-Dispatch on Feb. 20, 2022.

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4 Entries

Betsy Munsey

February 20, 2022

He was a very precious soul and always welcomed me into his home as family. He was also very good at pulling the wool, so to speak, over my eyesone was convincing me that Atlanta Airport had a double decker runway and landing. He dearly loved making me laugh but at the same time showing kindness . Love you Patty and family! Everyone of you

Ashley Hammond

February 20, 2022

I got to know your dad quite well over the years from the bank. He was such a wonderful happy man and lit up my day when I saw him! Our thoughts and prayers are with you all

Patricia Jones

February 20, 2022

I'm so sorry to hear about Gil. He was a dear man and will be missed. His sense of humor and travel stories were great, and he made everyone feel included. My prayers are with the family.

Debbie & Bob Baker

February 20, 2022

We're sorry for your loss. We never met your Dad, but from hearing the stories from Suzanne I know he was a wonderful man!

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