Aliene Murdock Obituary

MURDOCK - Aliene, (Mrs. Robert D.), born Aliene Sharp, July 9, 1921 in Selma, AL, died Monday, September 17, 2007. She is survived by: her 3 sons, David, Stephen and James; grandchildren, Matthew, Zeke, Amanda and Sally, and her husband, Ali; niece Susan Crocket; precious great-granddaughter, Leila; and her devoted and beloved husband, Robert. She is preceded in death by: grandson, Cole; and sister, Jean Shook. Aliene, an incurable romantic and a 1st Sergeant in the WACS, married Robert an Airman on Valentine's Day 1945, while both of them were stationed in England. Aliene was awarded the bronze star for her military service. A Tulsan since March of 1929, Aliene was an active member of Centenary United Methodist Church since 1933, teaching the Beginners for 35 years and serving on the board. Aliene's relatives shared her with the members, board, and supporters of the Center for the Physically Limited, where she served as Executive Director from 1957 to 1985. When she retired, she became Executive Director Emeritus. Aliene's incredible energy and capacity to love, to laugh, and to embrace infused the spirit of the organization she headed. Members said that the Center was their reason for getting up in the morning because it emanated Aliene's spirit. In a period when public facilities were inaccessible and mainstreaming was unheard of, Aliene took members, swimming, bowling, fishing and camping. There were elaborately costumed musical revues and Christmas caroling and beautiful ceramic works and crafts of all kinds. Aliene was everywhere, the members thrived, and so did the Center. In 1980, the Tulsa Housing Authority recognized Aliene's service to and advocacy for persons with disabilities, by naming their new accessible, affordable apartment building Aliene Murdock Villa. Many of Aliene's beloved Center members moved into this building adjacent to the Center, where since her retirement Aliene and her husband, Robert, have been regulars in their activities and celebrations. A viewing will be held at Ninde Funeral Home, 3841 S. Peoria from 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, September 19. Funeral service will be held at Centenary United Methodist Church, 631 North Denver, Thursday, September 20, at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her memory to Murdock Villa Resident Association, Attn. Norma DeRoin, 828 South Wheeling, Tulsa, OK 74104. Ninde, www.ninde.com, 742-5556. Ailene Murdock VIEW AND SIGN THE ONLINE GUEST BOOK: www.legacy.com/tulsaworld

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Published by Tulsa World on Sep. 19, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Aliene Murdock

11 Entries

Kathy (Conley)Wood

October 19, 2007

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Wayne Rumley II

October 14, 2007

Aliene Murdock was a very special person in my life. She truely one of very early influences in life. Especially at the early age of 6. When I first joined the Recreation Center for the Physically Limited.

angela vallandingham

September 26, 2007

i met "mrs. m. " through my husband, dick vallandingham, who had worked with her at the center for physically limited while he was in college back in the late 70's. my heart goes out to the family, esp. mr. m, upon her death. she was and remains the kind of role model and woman i aspire to be. her loving kindness and courage have left an indelible mark on the lives of so many. may she rest in peace and with God.

Joyce Crawford

September 24, 2007

I always think of Aliene as the heart of the Center for the Physically Limited. Her smile lit up the whole place. She was such a great friend to Hobert, Beulah & Doris Glass. I wouldn't have volunteered there for 13 years were it not for Aliene. I will miss her.

Wayne Rumley II

September 21, 2007

My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days ahead.

Michele McCain

September 20, 2007

God bless you at this time of loss. Treasure the wonderful memories and she will be with you always.

Diane Forschler

September 20, 2007

I met Mrs. Murdock when I volunteered at the Center in the late 60's and early 70's. She always seemed to be there and would greet me with a hug and a smile. While attending college, one of my classes visited the Center. Mrs. Murdock was so excited to see me, her eyes lit up with a big smile as she came over to hug me. She was always so happy.

She was a wonderful woman and a blessing to know. She will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Connie Harrell

September 19, 2007

I have fond memories of going to the Center as a guest at many activities in the 1960's and 1970's with my sister Karen, who is hard-of-hearing. Mrs. Murdock was very beloved by everyone! She was a beautiful, wonderful influence on many, many children and their families.

Norah and Ray Byrom

September 19, 2007

She was our Aunt! An incredible woman, who added magic to our lives. Every time with her was special and memorable. I am sure the reunion with her sister was something to behold. You are loved always and forever. Thank you for your love....Norah and Ray

Joyce Weigant

September 19, 2007

Please accept my deepest sympathies for you loss. Aliene was a gracious lady, and her beautiful smile will be missed. May you feel the presence of God's comfort and love.

Mike and Lorraine Anglin

September 19, 2007

With deepest sympathy at the loss of your mother/grandmother.

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