Mary F. Murray, age 85, of Holland, Michigan, peacefully passed away on Sunday, October 25, 2026.
Mary would desire to be remembered for who she was more so than what she did. Though she had many accomplishments, she is best known for the consistent presence she brought to every space and relationship she entered. Mary was a brilliant wit and conversationalist, full of engaging phrases and bits of wisdom, in true Irish fashion. She was a deep listener, making everyone she spoke with feel seen and heard. Her profound awareness of her own strengths and shortcomings projected a vulnerability that was both inspiring and inviting. Mary was a woman of deep faith, yet a true mystic driven by curiosity, a desire to know truth, and an acceptance of what cannot be known. She traversed every season of her life with an unforgettable sense of humor and uncontrollable infectious laughter. Humility and humor were held alongside her deep intellect and insight into others. We hold that which she loves close as a way of keeping her love flourishing. Throughout her life, she was a voracious reader, fierce advocate, committed tennis player, thoughtful cook, natural community builder, dog lover, joyful fashion pursuer, daily coffee lover and loyal friend. No matter the topic, Mary was a bold pursuer of both growth and acceptance, practicing the Serenity Prayer as central to her faith. Mary embraced and adored her family and we will carry with us her full sense of acceptance and love.
For these reasons and more she will be deeply missed.
Mary is survived by her son, Michael (Karyl) Morin; stepsons, Robert (Edit) Murray III and Mark (Mary) Murray; daughter-in-law, Colleen Morin (wife of the late James Morin); stepdaughter-in-law, Lydia Murray (wife of the late Paul Murray); grandchildren, Sarah Morin, Rebecca (Tyler) French, Samuel (Hannah) Morin, Robert Murray, Kathy Murray, Gabriel Murray, Hana (James) Pavlov, and Erin (Kurt) Bagne; and great-grandchildren, Clementine and Clarabelle Pavlov, and Vivian and Benjamin Bagne.
Mary was preceded by her son, James (Colleen) Morin; husband, Robert Murray II; former husband, Ronald Morin; stepsons, Paul (Lydia) Murray and Peter Murray; and brothers, McNeil Fraser, Stuart Fraser, and Sean Fraser.
Mary will be buried at a later date with her family at Historic Elwood Cemetery in Detroit MI, where the family will hold a private graveside memorial.
Memorial contributions can be made in Mary’s honor to Guest House https://guesthouse.org
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