Benjamin “Ben” Robert Murray Sr., 84, of Morgantown, passed away Oct. 22, 2021, surrounded by family, at his home in Leesburg, Fla.
Ben was born in Morgantown to Ray James and Rosie Jane Dalton Murray Feb. 6, 1937. Ben grew up in Mountain Heights, where he met his wife of 64 years, Gracie. They enjoyed a full and happy marriage, building a large family. Ben and Gracie square danced with the Clinton Corners Square Dancing Club. Ben was known as a hard worker and enjoyed a long career working for the City of Morgantown for 13 years until becoming a coal miner with Consol Energy, where he retired after 26 years. He was a member of the UMWA Local 1702. He enjoyed being a father and raised five sons. The family spent many summers camping and hunting in the fall. Ben spent his retirement between Morgantown and Leesburg, Fla., where he golfed, fished, volunteered calling bingo games and other activities in the community.
Ben is survived by his wife, Gracie Mae Matthews Murray, sons: Benjamin (Sheila) Murray Jr., James (Terry) Murray, Michael (Donna) Murray, Randy (Pam) Murray and Kevin (Christy) Murray; siblings, Leona, Phillis and Ruby; 10 grandchildren: Tina, Amber, Misty, Angel, Winter, Bobbie Jo, Randy Jr., Melissa, Michael and Kevin II; and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Russell, Donald, Darlene and Laura; and a granddaughter, Samantha.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date at the Lake Griffin Mobile Home Park community building in Leesburg, Fla.
