Obituary of Nancy Jean Murray

Nancy Jean (Matson) Murray, age 70, of Oxford, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 10, 2010, at her home with her family by her side. She was born on April 8, 1939, in Oak Park, Illinois, to the late William and Jean Matson. Nancy graduated from Wheaton Community High School in 1957, after which she attended the University of Wisconsin (Delta Gamma) for three years. She graduated from North Park University in 1961. Nancy married Dr. Roger W. Murray on August 12, 1960 in Chicago, Illinois. She was a devoted wife and mother, avid naturalist, outdoor sportswoman and world traveler. Nancy dedicated 40 years to the advancement of environmental education at Seven Ponds Nature Center in Dryden, Michigan. It was here she spent countless hours volunteering as an assistant naturalist, teacher, and member of the board of trustees. Most recently she served as the co-chair of the successful Capital Campaign to expand the nature center. Among her varied pursuits, Nancy was a Master Gardener, a member of the Oxford Garden Club, and an active leader in her church. She was also an international birder, with 523 species on her North American life list. Nancy was a mother to many, friend to all, and a dedicated volunteer; she approached endeavors and challenges in her life with love, generosity and good humor. She will be greatly missed by all whose lives she touched. Nancy is survived by her husband, Roger, daughter Sara Murray (Ed Harrison) of Wyandotte, Susan Murray (Jamie Matus) of Okemos, Robert (Lorrie) Murray, of Mt. Pleasant, four grandchildren: Emily Matus, William Matus, Robert Murray Jr., and Alexander Murray; brother Stephen (Janet) Matson of Vermont, and nephews Thor Matson and Chandler (Anna) Matson; sister-in-law Ann (nee Murray) Dietrich (Richard) of Oklahoma, and nephews Kurt (Lisa) Dietrich, Stan (Karen) Dietrich, and Peter (Tracy) Dietrich; as well as a loving extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents and granddaughter, Hannah Murray. A memorial service and celebration of Nancy's life will take place at a later date at Seven Ponds Nature Center in Dryden and Immanuel Congregational United Church of Christ in Oxford. Memorial contributions may be made to Seven Ponds Nature Center and Immanuel Congregational United Church of Christ. Please sign Nancy's guestbook.