Donald Earl McMurray
Obituary
"I want to go home." On April 29, 2023, at 2:15 a.m., Rev. Donald Earl McMurray arrived at his Heavenly Home. We are glad he is now rejoicing with Jesus. He fought a long and faithful fight, always trusting in God's Word for direction.
Donald was born on June 11, 1931, in Spokane, Wash., to Earl and Esther McMurray. The eldest of six children, survived by one sister, Yvonne Haas of Gilroy. He was preceded in death by his sisters, Joy Lee of Tacoma, Wash., Faith McMurray of Ravensdale, Wash., Bonnie Southcott of Chelan, Wash.; and his brother, David McMurray of Issaquah, Wash.
He graduated from Auburn High School in Washington. Then served in the U.S. Navy from 1951-1954. On his discharge from the Navy, he enrolled at Bethany Bible College/Bethany University in Scotts Valley, Calif., graduating in 1960 with a degree in Theology. At Bethany, he met the love of his life, Ruby Wofford. After going on their first date in May, they were married on July 9, 1955. This July they would have been married 68 years.
Their first pastorate was in Lakeport, Calif., from 1960-1962. Realizing God's call upon his life while in the military, he and Ruby served as missionaries to Malaysia, Thailand, and other countries in Southeast Asia from 1963 onward.
On March 24, 1968, they were blessed with the arrival of their precious daughter, Valerie. Then on April 25, 1997, a beautiful granddaughter Tiana (whom he named) joined the McMurray family. She was truly his pride and joy.
In 1972, we were blessed to become pastors here in Gilroy at First Assembly of God (New Hope Community Church) until 1986. What a wonderful life we have had all because of Jesus.
Donald will be greatly missed and always loved as a husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, pastor, and friend.
His "Going Home" service will be held on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at New Hope Community Church on 8886 Muraoka Dr. in Gilroy. Viewing will be from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and the service will begin afterwards.
Published in Gilroy Dispatch · May 3, 2023