Murray's obituary
November 7, 1936 – December 25, 2025
Murray Duane Heffernan, a dedicated patriot, beloved grandfather, and devoted family man, passed away peacefully on Christmas Day, 2025, at the age of 89.
Murray proudly served his country for 26 years in the United States Air Force, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. His career was defined by discipline, integrity, and a profound sense of duty. After retiring from the military, Murray carried those same values into his civilian life, becoming a pillar of strength for his family and community.
Beyond his military honors, Murray was a man of simple pleasures and deep connections. He was a fixture at the local golf course, where he could be found every Saturday morning (for as long as he could) perfecting his swing and enjoying the camaraderie of his friends. He enjoyed spending time everyday with the staff and fellow patrons at Neighborhood Cafe as well as frequent visits to Bon Appetite French Bakery.
Above all, Murray’s greatest joy was his family. He was a constant, loving presence in the lives of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, rarely missing an opportunity to share a story, a laugh, or a quiet moment of support.
Murray was preceded in death by his parents, his sisters Joyce and Phyllis, his younger brother Karl, and his beloved wife, Diana.
His legacy lives on through his surviving family. His brother David Heffernan, his sister Sharon Snider, his children, Mark, Tammy, and Diana, and step-children Dawn and Robert, who carry forward his lessons of kindness and resilience as well as many cherished grand and great-grandchildren.
Celebration of Life
A service to honor Murray’s "life well lived" will be held on January 2, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Mary Esther United Methodist Church.
We invite anyone whose life was touched by Murray to join us in celebrating his memory and the lasting impact he left on us all.
"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die."
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