William Murray, Sr.

OXFORD - William C. "Buddy" Murray, Sr., 87, of Locust Street, died peacefully with his family by his side on February 8, 2010, after a long illness. He was predeceased by his wife of 56 years and love of his life, Frances F. (Jaconetti) Murray of Oxford, who died in 2006. He is survived by two children, Patricia M. Pupka and her husband Robert of Webster, and John E. Murray and his wife Eugena of Webster; ten grandchildren, one great granddaughter, and several nephews and nieces. He was predeceased by a son, William C. Murray, Jr., of Oxford who died in 2009; one brother and four sisters. He was born in Worcester, the son of the late Patrick W. and Margaret (Burns) Murray, and lived in Millbury and Worcester before moving to Oxford in 1952. He received an honorary high school diploma from Millbury High School in 2000, honoring those who left school to join the military during World War II. He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II and the Korean War. During his time serving with the 431st Anti Aircraft Artillery Battalion, he received the Purple Heart for injuries sustained and the Korean Service Medal with 5 Bronze Stars. Mr. Murray was a plumber with the Plumber's Local 4 Union for 28 years, retiring in 1985. Throughout his life and during retirement, he owned and operated William Murray Plumbing and Heating for many years. Previously he worked at Standard Lock and Washer. Mr. Murray was a member of the V.F.W. Post 5663 and the American Legion Post 58, both in Oxford. He was a member of the Korean War Branch 23rd Infantry F Company and was a member of the Worcester Disabled American Veterans. Mr. Murray was a former member of St. Roch's Church in Oxford and enjoyed spending time at area coffee shops. He enjoyed sports, especially the Red Sox, Patriots, and the Bruins. Calling hours will be Friday, Feb. 12, 2010, from 9 - 11 a.m., at Paradis Funeral Home, 357 Main St., Oxford. A funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. on Friday, Feb. 12, 2010, at the funeral home. Military burial will follow at Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton, with the Oxford Memorial Honor Guard participating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Massachusetts Veteran's Shelter, 69 Grove St., Worcester, MA 01605.