ARLENE MURRY
August 19, 1935 – December 6, 2017
It is with heavy hearts – but also with joy and understanding – that we say goodbye to Arlene Murry, the Grand Matriarch of our clan. Wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, Arlene can now soar with the Angels and into the waiting arms of her family in heaven.
Born the second of three children to James and Helen Rowlan, Arlene spent her youth in Pullman, WA until moving to Billings where she completed her high school education and enrolled in Eastern Montana College. There she met her soul mate Jim Murry of Laurel, and the two were married on August 29, 1954 when both were 19 years of age.
Parenthood soon followed, while Jim followed pipeline work through the mid-west. The two oldest children Patrick and Cathy were born in Ohio.
Arlene and her family returned to Laurel in 1956. During that time she served as President of the Ladies Auxiliary of OCAW Local 2-443, treasurer of the Yellowstone County Democratic Central Committee and treasurer for St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. Children Timothy and Michael were born in Billings.
The Murry family moved to Helena in 1966 and other than a seven-year hiatus in northwest Indiana during the 1990s, Helena would be her home for the rest of her life. The Murry’s youngest son Kieran was born in Helena.
A woman of exquisite taste, a winning smile and great sense of humor, Arlene worked at The Globe Clothing Store, served as manager of the women’s department, and sold apparel to countless members of the Helena community. She was also employed by Downtown Helena.
While Arlene was a working mother and respected member of the Helena business community long before it was commonplace, by far her greatest passion and life’s work was her family. She was utterly devoted to her husband of 63 years and her 5 children who she loved and nurtured unconditionally.
It is fitting that Arlene passed at the beginning of the Christmas Season, which was far and away her favorite time of the year. She would start playing Christmas music in October as she began preparations for the celebration to come. Joyful memories of an Arlene Murry Christmas will always be cherished by her family, especially its youngest members.
A woman informed by her faith and fierce commitment to the ideals of fairness and social justice – along with unlimited love, common sense and patience – Arlene Murry was truly the inspiration and cornerstone of her family.
Arlene is survived by her husband Jim, her children Patrick (Georgia), Cathy (Dan Jenkins), Timothy (LaRain), Michael (Cindy) and Kieran (Sherri). She was beloved grandmother to Brian (Beth), Toby, Meghan (Jason), TJ, Sara, James, Dillon and Nicholas, G W and Crystal Alexander, Kimberly and Kurt Ernstes, Dereck and Tia Alexander and Janice Alexander. And great-grandmother to James, Ayla, Dakota, Rozlyn, Clayton, Elizabeth and Aspen. Her sister Marilyn, brother Jim and their respective families also survive Arlene.
Cremation has taken place. This obituary may be viewed online at www.helenafunerals.com. At Arlene’s request, a private family service will be held this spring.
Memorials in Arlene’s memory can be made to Hospice of St. Peter’s [406-444-2370] or the Alzheimer’s Association. [1-800-272-3900.]
Her husband and children were blessed to be able to enfold Arlene in hugs and love in her final hours. Goodbye Mom. We love you to the Moon and back, and all the stars in the sky.
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Mark Erickson says
Hey guys I have so many memories of growing up with the Murry kids and have lost touch but want to tell you all I am so sorry for your loss God’s speed Mark Erickson and family
Doris Romanisko says
Jim, I’m so sorry for your loss. I know Arlene joins the spirit of the other strong voices of social justice that have passed this year. With a heart of solidarity, Doris Romanisko
Emily Melton says
Jim and Family, loving thoughts are with you. A fabulous life of a fabulous woman. I have fond memories of our intwined lives. Fun and meaningful. On behalf of the Melton family, thanks for the memories.
Emily Melton
Butch and Pearle PLowman says
Our sincere condolences Jim, and family. We remember Arlene fondly and with great respect. She was a delightful person. May she rest in peace and may the God of all comfort sustain you in this time of grief.
Butch and Pearle Plowman
Concetta Eckel says
Arlene was my mentor and my partner in crime for so many years on the Walking Mall. A love of life and caring for everyone was the hallmark of her personality. My heart reaches out to you, Jim and all of her family. May peace be with you! Concetta
timothy mckeever says
I have many fond memories of Arlene from the days on Last Chance Gulch. She was a genuinely kind and considerate lady. It was always a pleasure to visit with her and Jim when she was either at the Globe, or in the AFL-CIO office next to the Main News. Her children Pat and Tim were good friends over the years, and Jim was always a great man to know as well. All of the Murry family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you, Arlene, for being one of the most memorable people I knew during the days of “Life on Last Chance Gulch” God Bless You!!
terry w bass says
Jim God bless you and family. May Arlene Rest In Peace and Perpetual light shine upon her. You and Arlene are close to my heart. Your friend, Terry W Bass