Condolence: From theories, to new discoveries and stories from ages past, it was always entertaining to listen to the plethora of fascinating things my grandfather would talk about. He used to tell our family about his trip from Boston to Richmond by bicycle, the different places he had lived, and stories about my father as a child that so stimulated my imagination to seemingly travel to different times and places. My grandfather had confidence, a broad range of interests, and was always joyful to see us. I will miss him greatly, but shall cherish the conversations and memories we shared together for a lifetime. Though his life is over, I can still see a glimmer of his traits in my uncles and father occasionally through their story telling and diverse interests. It is indeed hard to believe that I recently put the last “Dear Grandma and Grandpa” letter in the mail this past week. I trust in the divine knowledge of the Lord that my grandfather’s time and purpose on this earth was fulfilled. I am very grateful that his passing was peaceful and that he was able to live a long life I was able to be a part of. With the memories I have of my grandfather, each of those mourning along with me are held near to my heart and will be in my prayers during this difficult time.

Condolence: It saddened me when I heard of Pastor Murray's passing. May I offer my best wishes to his wife and family.

It has been well over forty years since I have been in touch with Pastor Murray, but he had a strong influence on my life during his time in Morgantown. I was a youth at First Baptist Church and a leader in the BYF, both at the church and in the Goshen Association. In those capacities I had frequent one-on-one interactions with Herb beyond those of being one of the youth of the church. He was very good with young people and could softly impart wisdom when required. At the same time, he knew how to have fun with the youth.

I particularly remember one experience when as the President of the Association BYF we were having a difficult time because of the behavior of one of the other pastors in the Association. It had risen to the level where that pastor had actually reduced several of the girls to tears over the issue of whether it was appropriate for girls and boys to swim together in the same swimming pool. (I realize that such an issue seems hard to imagine now, but this was in the 1960's, although that pastor's views were not shared by any of the other association pastors even at that point in time.) Anyway, the immediate situation was resolved but I was still trying to deal with that pastor on an ongoing basis in the aftermath. I remember one particular discussion with Herb in his office when he took out his chalkboard and a piece of chalk and had me write "Experience" on the board and told me to "chalk it up to experience!" It may sound a little hokey now but it was an effective way to communicate his message.

I also remember one particular youth trip to a convention in Atlantic City. We were returning to Morgantown, driving on the Pennsylvania Turnpike. I don't really know how late it was, but in my memory it was very late at night. Herb was obviously fighting to stay awake and stay alert while driving, a situation that I appreciate much more as an adult than I did as a teenager. Anyway, he led all of us in the car in singing some of the silliest songs I have ever heard! We were all laughing, and it helped him stay awake and drive responsibly. I don't believe I had ever seen a pastor act so silly. It was actually a great insight into him as a person.

I had the good fortune to be asked to provide the message to the congregation on a few occasions on Youth Sundays when I was in high school and on at least one occasion when I was home on vacation while away at college. He also counseled me as I considered the ministry, which I eventually declined to enter because I did not feel it was my calling, although I did investigate the option to some extent before making that decision. I was also honored to be his guest at a luncheon of the Roger Williams Association at one ABC Convention in Boston in the late 1960s when I attended the convention as one of the delegates from First Baptist in Morgantown.

I guess one of the great blessings all of us have to look forward to is learning how we may have influenced those with whom we have come in contact during our lives. Herb Murray had a significant influence on my life. I wish I had managed to stay in touch with him as an adult, but I recall him as a pastor who always set a good example and could relate well to those of all ages. May God's blessings rest richly on all of his family who gather today and tomorrow. You were blessed to have him in your family, as husband or father or otherwise and may you continue to be blessed in your memories of him for years to come.

Condolence: So sorry I can't be there to support you and your family. My heartfelt condolences for the loss of your Dad to you and your family.I just read his obituary and no wonder you love camping and the outdoors! Please give your Mom my best. My thoughts are with you all. Joan

Condolence: There are so many happy memories we shared, and so many interesting stories you told me. You always had something new you had seen, heard, watched, or written to share with me. I always loved coming to see your bright Christmas tree with all the ornaments you had a story for, and looked forward to getting your present in an envelope you had decorated just for me. I am glad we were able to have so many good times together and I will always look back happily on the times we shared. You touched so many lives, and Joel and I will be praying for everyone who is mourning your passing and celebrating your life.

Condolence: I first met Herb when he started attending Emmanuel Baptist in Albany, N.Y. We shared a passion for stamp collecting and for having a West Virginia connection. I remember him as a very personable and caring person. I remember one piece of advice he gave me many years ago at the time his memory was beginning to fade. When searching for a name, go through the alphabet. It works. My best wishes to his whole family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.