Obituary of Carol Dean Murray

Carol Dean Murray, 78, of Clayton, CA, entered into rest with her sons by her side on Wednesday, January 15, after a long battle with cancer. She was born to the late George and Hazel Chappell, March 4, 1935, in Hackett, AR and moved to El Cerrito in 1945. She graduated El Cerrito High School in 1952, and University of the Pacific in 1959 with a degree in Religious Education. She served as a missionary of the Methodist Church in Costa Rica and Mexico in the early '60s, then married in 1964 and lived with her family in San Jose, Santa Clara, Placentia, CA, and finally Clayton, where she remained for the last 35 years of her life. She was a valued employee at several area businesses including San Francisco Music Box Co., Jurika & Voyles, and Educational Testing Services. Carol's social and spiritual life revolved around Concord United Methodist Church, where her most beloved activity was directing and playing in the handbell choirs. Inspired by her study of scripture and dedication to the teachings of Christ, she served in many ministry and leadership capacities and on missionary service trips to New Orleans and Bosnia. Carol always sought to see the good in people and her life was exemplified by service to others. Her infectious humor and enthusiasm will be missed. She is survived by four sons: Michael (Dorothee Veit) of Hershey, PA; Richard (Jennifer Bratcher) of San Diego; John (Carly Deal) of Modesto; and Stephen (Kris Leathers) of Anaheim; two sisters: Norma and Nila; one brother: Marvin; four grandchildren: Michelle, Benjamin, Garrett and Graeme; and three nephews and one niece. A celebration of Carol's life will be held at Concord United Methodist Church on Friday, January 24 at 3:00p.m. Donations in Carol's name may be made to the Concord United Methodist Church Bell Choir Fund, 1645 West St, Concord, CA 94521, or to Hospice of the East Bay.