Patricia "Pat" Ann Murray

Patricia “Pat” Ann Murray, 93, of Arlington Heights, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on September 5, 1931, in Chicago to David and Helen M. “Marie” (Donovan) O’Connell, Pat lived a life devoted to caring for others and was an anchor of strength and warmth for all who knew her.

As the eldest of four siblings, Pat embraced the role of nurturer from an early age, tending to her younger sisters and brother before eventually raising a family of her own. In 1949, she met the love of her life, the late James R. “Russ” Murray. Together, they shared a remarkable 68 years of marriage, building a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and enduring memories. Pat and Russ’s marriage was a model of commitment and partnership, grounded in faith, family, and mutual devotion.

Pat was a dedicated professional who touched many lives through her work. She served as the alumni director at The Academy of Our Lady High School in Chicago, where she fostered lifelong connections within the school community. Later, she brought compassion and care to her role as an office manager for Oehler Funeral Home in Des Plaines and Lauterburg & Oehler Funeral Home in Arlington Heights. Her dedication to her work was a testament to her unwavering sense of responsibility and desire to help others.

In retirement, Pat and Russ enjoyed many years together, creating cherished memories including trips to Europe, Hawaii, and a family vacation with each of their children and grandchildren. These experiences were among Pat’s fondest memories and further deepened the close-knit bonds of her family. In her later years, she especially cherished her time with her great-grandchildren, whose smiles brought her immense joy and fulfillment.

Pat’s legacy lives on in the family she loved so dearly. She was the beloved mother of Joan (Jim) Stearns, Jim (Nancy) Murray, Mike (Beth) Murray, Tom (Jan) Murray, and Kathy Murray. She was a cherished grandmother to Kelly Stearns, Brittany (Colin) Joslyn, Erin (Isabel Lee) Stearns, Chris (Taylor) Stearns, Nick (Barb Christian) Murray, Matthew (Linda) Murray, Allie (Nicholas) Stankus, Quinn (Meghan) Murray, Rachel (Will) Haas, Dana Murray, Margaret (Blaine) Hogan, Colleen Murray, and T.J. Murray. Pat’s heart extended to her 13 great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life: Madeline, Jack, Emma, Liam, James, Ethan, Jonah, Carter, Declan, Jameson, Ruby, Eloise, and Nora.

She was a dear sister to Sr. Joan O’Connell, SSND, and was predeceased by her siblings, Mary Ellen (late Robert) Perez and David (late Barbara) O’Connell and her brother-in-law Bernard (late Mary) Murray. She is also fondly remembered by her many nieces and nephews.

Pat’s selflessness, kindness, and grace will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in the countless lives she touched. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire and guide her family for generations to come.

Visitation will be Sunday, October 20, 2024 from 3-7 PM at Lauterburg & Oehler Funeral Home, 2000 E. Northwest Highway, Arlington Heights and Monday, October 21 at Our Lady of the Wayside Catholic Church, 440 S. Mitchell Avenue, Arlington Heights from 10:00 AM until the time of the Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM.

Interment will follow at All Saints Cemetery in Des Plaines.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to Ronald McDonald House Charities (rmhc.org) or St. Viator High School, 1213 E. Oakton Street, Arlington Heights, IL 60004 appreciated.