John Thomas Murrie

John Thomas Murrie, 71, of Gideon, Mo., died after a brief illness on Nov. 5, 2023, at Dexter Hospital in Dexter, Mo.

Per his request, his body was donated to the Washington University Medical School.  

John was the fifth of seven children born to Clare H. and Daniel M. Murrie.  John had many challenges in life but was a man with an open and joyous heart to people and ideas.  Daily, he regaled his family with a repository of memories and humor.

He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church, serving as an altar boy, as well as a scout with Explorer Scouts 44.  

He worked at Martin’s gas station during and after graduating from Anna-Jonesboro Community High School.  

He then moved to Chicago, working at the Schwinn Bicycle Co. and later as a city employee in Ventura, Calif. Later he was employee by Salvation Army in Urbana.

He was preceded in death by his parents, aunts Helen Henehan, Katherine Lacart and Betty Lowe and uncle Bill Murrie. He also had eight Murrie half-aunts and uncles.

He is survived by six siblings, James Daniel Murrie (Martha Brennan), William Stephen Murrie (Nancy), Union Mo., Katherine Murrie (Dennis Robinson) Harrisonburg Va., David Michael Murrie (Eileen deceased), Ventura, Calif., Mary Anne Burden (Thomas), Tujunga, Calif., and Joseph Patrick Murrie Anna.  

He is also survived by two first cousins, Ellie Mac Feely and John Lacart. Also surviving are 13 nieces and nephews and 17 great-nieces and nephews, as well as special caregiver Rhonda Schiwitz.

Funeral services are pending at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s or Salvation Army.