Martha Frances Mitchell Murray, 94, of Troutville, passed away on Friday, October 6, 2023.
The beloved mother and grandmother (Nana) was born on August 28, 1929, in Edwight, W.Va. She was the only daughter of the late Samuel E. Mitchell and Phyllis C. Mitchell. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Hale Murray, Jr., and brothers, Stewart C. Mitchell, Arthur R. Mitchell and Samuel E. Mitchell, Jr.
Martha dedicated her life to family, education, and music. After graduating from Radford College, she began her 41-year teaching career in Franklin County, followed by Bramwell, W.Va., Roanoke County, Troutville High School, and then Lord Botetourt High School, where she retired as Director of Guidance. She inspired her students to pursue their passion for music and brought joy to countless lives through her work as a choral director. Martha’s love for music extended beyond the classroom, as she was an avid pianist, musician, and singer. She also directed and organized Broadway musical plays and directed the Botetourt County Chorus. She used her Master of Education degree from Radford University to guide and support her students.
Martha’s love for her family was immeasurable. She is survived by her sons, Robert H. (Bob) Murray, III (Kirsten) and Todd Murray (Tamara), and her daughter, Kay Murray Logan (Paul). She will be deeply missed by her grandsons, Robert H. Murray, IV, Steven Murray (Lauren), Ben Murray, Will Murray, and granddaughters, Annabelle Logan and Emily Logan.
Martha’s faith was an important part of her life. She dearly loved her church family at Troutville Baptist Church where she was an active member for more than 70 years and served as a Sunday School teacher and Adult Choir Director. Her family will be forever grateful for the loving care and support she received from the congregation.
A celebration of Martha’s life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 14 at Troutville Baptist Church, 5520 Lee Highway, Troutville. Burial will be at Troutville Cemetery. The family will receive friends 4-6 p.m. Friday, October 13 at Rader Funeral Home, 630 Roanoke Road, Daleville.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Martha Murray’s memory may be made to Troutville Baptist Church, 5520 Lee Highway, Troutville, 24175. Online condolences may be made to Martha’s family at www.rader-funeralhome.com/tributes/Martha-Murray.