Community Mourns Passing of Wesley Allen Murray at 85

Wesley Allen Murray, a dedicated community member and veteran, passed away in Whittier, California, on October 16, 2025, at the age of 85. A resident of Whittier for 40 years, Murray’s life was marked by service, education, and a passion for woodworking and reading.

Born on March 23, 1940, in Hamilton, Ohio, Murray grew up in Rochester, New York. He graduated from Monroe High School and went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Sociology from Heidelberg College in Tiffin, Ohio. His career began as a YMCA Boys Director before he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served for more than five years. During his time in the military, he was a B-52 navigator/bombardier and flew combat missions over Vietnam.

After completing his military service, Murray pursued further education at the University of Pennsylvania. He studied Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, eventually becoming an area planner for the Philadelphia Planning Department under the mentorship of noted urban planner Edmund Bacon. Throughout his career, he worked in various capacities within urban planning and landscape design, including a five-year tenure teaching at the University of Oregon.

In his later years, Murray transitioned to the telecommunications industry, focusing on planning and permitting as new systems were developed. Despite retiring, he often quipped, “I find I’m busier now than when I worked full time,” reflecting his commitment to community service.

Murray was actively involved with the Whittier First United Methodist Church, where he served on multiple committees. His contributions extended to the City of Whittier, where he participated in various boards and commissions. Every Wednesday morning, he volunteered at the Veterans’ Resource Center in the Uptown Library and assisted with resource tables. He was also a member of the Whittier Host Lions Club, where he organized blood donation events and collected used glasses for their Sight and Hearing Foundation.

Murray’s dedication to giving back was evident in his blood donation record, which exceeded 43 gallons. He began donating blood during his college years and continued until recently at the City of Hope in Duarte. Additionally, he contributed to Habitat for Humanity and participated in the Jimmy Carter Build Project in Los Angeles in 2007.

A passionate woodworker, he crafted toys, particularly small toy cars, which he distributed to children and adults alike in his community. His larger projects were donated to charity auctions, further demonstrating his commitment to helping others. An avid reader, Murray collected books on various subjects, with a particular fondness for history and mystery genres.

He is survived by his wife of nearly 63 years, Rita Murray; sons, Christopher (Karla) Murray and Timothy Murray; grandson, Declan Murray; sister, Thomasin (Alan) Pierce; and was preceded in death by his brother, Michael Murray.

A memorial service will take place on November 15 at 11:00 AM at the Whittier First United Methodist Church, located at 13222 Bailey Street, Whittier, CA 90601. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages memorial donations to the Whittier First United Methodist Church, the Whittier Host Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation, the Whittier Public Library Foundation for the Veterans Resource Center, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Los Angeles, or any preferred charity. Donations or blood donations in Murray’s memory to City of Hope are also welcomed.