Dale Frederick Murray, 84, of Chatham, formerly of Taylorville, died on Feb. 10, 2026.
A funeral mass is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 14, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville with Fr. John Burnette officiating. The visitation will be held from 10 until 11 a.m. on Saturday in the church. Burial will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville.
The first of twelve children of Wayne and Kathryn (Miller) Murray, Mr. Murray was born on Oct. 1, 1941, at home in Brownstown. Being first instilled the roles of leader, protector and provider in Mr. Murray from an early age and those characteristics stuck with him his entire life.
After graduating from Pana High School and with the encouragement and support of a mentor, Mr. Murray pursued a business degree at Sparks College in Shelbyville, where he met his wife and best friend, Barbara (Jones) Murray. Together, they were blessed with 61 years of marriage and six children: Tim (Tina) of Ladson, SC; Eric (Penny Dunahee) of Girard; Ian; Lisa (Denis) of Springfield; Kristin (Kurt) of Springfield; and Aaron (Raina) of Foristell, MO.
Mr. Murray was from both a generation and family with strong work ethics. He worked in various jobs prior to his retirement and, in the early years, multiple jobs at the same time. He worked for Firestone, Allis Chalmers and the Prudential Insurance Company, as well as owning his own insurance agencies. It wasn’t unusual for Mr. Murray to pick up an evening or weekend shift working for Earl Ferry at the Marine Gas Station or for Pasquo Podeschi in the meat department at the Taylorville My Store after a long day or week at Firestone.
Although not a veteran, Mr. Murray was a huge supporter of the military and veterans. His love for military history also inspired three of his sons to military service. He encouraged and supported their military service. A couple of his cherished memories included visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and a cruise on the USS Minneapolis St. Paul (a Los Angeles-class submarine).
When not working, Mr. Murray found much joy in helping others. He was heavily involved in the community as a Scout Leader and in various fundraising positions for St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylorville and was ever present for the Lion’s Club, as the president but more importantly for their Candy Day fundraiser. He was also a volunteer and social member of American Legion Post 905 in Kincaid for several years, helping out with the semi-annual garlic sausage fundraiser and Bingo sessions.
His love for the outdoors was only superseded by his love for his family. Mr. Murray loved walking in the woods, fishing, tent camping and hunting. When not outdoors, he could generally be found playing various card games, playing chess and playing board games with family and friends. Above all, Mr. Murray cherished the time he spent with his family.
Mr. Murray was a people person, never meeting a stranger. He enjoyed conversation, sharing memories and listening to others.
Mr. Murray is survived by five of his children and their spouses; 12 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; seven brothers and two sisters; and numerous nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.
Mr. Murray was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Barbara; his son, Ian Daniel Murray; his great-granddaughter, Gracelyn J. Banks; and two brothers, Tommy and Greg.
Mr. Murray was a loving husband, father, Papa, brother and friend. He was called home to God and to join his beloved wife Barbara, his son Ian and other loved ones in heaven.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Taylorville Food Pantry, St. Mary’s School, or the charity of your choice. McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.
