Ellen Lynn Mclernon Murray, 81, passed away peacefully at Concordia Village Retirement Home on March 5, 2024, in Springfield, Illinois. Ellen was born on October 10, 1942, in Kenmore, New York, to Howard and Marwgen McLernon. She is preceded in death by her husband, James Stanley Murray, and her daughter, Julie Irene Murray Brooks, who courageously battled ALS until October 2023, and her beloved cat, George.
Ellen is survived by her sister, Gwen (husband Dick) Crosson of New York State. She is also survived by her daughter Ann (husband Barry) of Auburn, Illinois, and their children: Darren (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam), Jeremy (Nashville, Tennessee), and Anthony, Margwen, and Bryan. Ellen is also survived by Julie's husband, Albert Brooks, of Seaford, Virginia, and their children: Isabelle (Richmond, Virginia), Meredith, Emma, and Riley, also of Seaford.
Ellen earned a bachelor’s degree in library science from SUNY Geneseo in (1968) and later attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, eventually earning a MA in Communications from Sangamon State University in Springfield, IL. (1988)
She and Jim married on June 18, 1966 and enjoyed entertaining friends and family together until Jim’s death in 2001.
Ellen was a member of the American Association of University Women. She was active in the theater and arts community in Springfield for decades with her husband Jim.
Ellen had many things that brought her joy. Some of her hobbies included exploring family genealogy and collecting depression era/cordial glassware. She loved playing bridge, spending time with her “lunch bunch” and “Panera Group”. Ellen had a passion for traveling the US and world, ultimately exploring destinations such as the United Kingdom, Italy, Australia, Poland, and Germany.
In the last few years Ellen kept a positive attitude and cheery disposition while battling pancreatic cancer. Ellen Murray will be dearly missed by her friends and family.
Services will be held at Staab Funeral Home at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Arthritis Foundation, or University of Illinois Foundation.
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