Francis A. Murray

GARDNER - Francis Arthur Murray, Sr., 85, of Gardner, was called by God on Wednesday, February 28, in his home, surrounded by his loving family. Francis was born April 8, 1932, in Richmond, Vermont, son of the late Harry and Mary (Badger) Murray. He attended Holy Rosary and Gardner High School. Francis was drafted during the Korean Conflict, by the United States Army, serving as a tank commander in Germany. Following his service, he worked at O'Hearn's and then 29 years at Nichols and Stone. Francis was also a real estate broker, working for LeBlanc's before becoming self employed. He was an active member for over 50 years at Sacred Heart Parish and currently a member of Annunciation Parish. His hobbies included bowling, fishing and being a member of the Gardner Horseshoe Club. After retiring at 62, Francis and Jean enjoyed multiple trips to Hawaii, Las Vegas, Aruba and several other Caribbean Islands. He leaves his wife of 66 years, Jean M. (Johnson) Murray; one son, Francis A. Murray, Jr., husband of the late Cosette, of Gardner; three daughters, Kay Gonyeo and husband Jim, of Pelham, NH, Cynthia of Gardner, and the late Sharon Butler, wife of Glenn, of Gardner; his late brother, Clarence Murray and wife Peg, of Marshfield; three sisters, Arlene Moore and husband Roger of Abington, Irene Perron and husband Dick, of Gardner, and Diane Murray Payne and wife Irene, of Winterport, ME; ten grandchildren; eleven great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. The funeral Mass will be held Monday, March 5, at 11:00 A.M. at Holy Rosary Church, 135 Nichols St., Gardner. Burial, with military honors, will follow at St. John's Cemetery. A calling hour will precede the funeral Monday, from 9:30 to 10:30 A.M. at Lamoureux-Smith & Poliks Funeral Home, 105 Central St., Gardner. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, Office of Development, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607. To send an online condolence please visit www.mackfuneralhome.com. Lamoureux-Smith & Poliks - A Mack Family Funeral Home, 105 Central St., Gardner is directing arrangements.