FAYE MARLENE MURRAY

Faye Marlene Murray (née Wallace) passed away peacefully in the comfort of her own apartment—a gentle ending to a remarkable life and exactly as she would have wanted, on the morning of July 23, 2026, at the age of 92.

Born in Regina, Saskatchewan, on November 9, 1933, Faye was the daughter of Stephen Scott Wallace and Annie Isabella Emma Hunter. She grew up in a bustling household that included ten Wallace siblings, along with numerous foster children whose lives became part of her family story. Her siblings included 

Beatrice "Joy," James King (Jim), “Ivan” Stephen, John "Harry", Nadene Mildred (Nade), Lois Madeline (Wally), “Jeannette” Marilyn, “Betty” Yvonne, Murray Wayne (Butch) and Lyn, a brother who died just four days after birth.

In a family that loved nicknames, Faye answered to two. Her youngest brother, Butch, affectionately called her "Doc," while her sisters bestowed upon her the delightfully mysterious name "Yonena" during one of their legendary sisters' weekends. 

Adventure called early. As a young woman, Faye left Regina to join the Royal Canadian Air Force as a radar plotter, beginning a lifetime of service, resilience, and independence. A path that would lead her to the love of her life.

Faye has been reunited with the love of her life, John Ross Murray, who predeceased her on October 11, 2025. Married on December 8, 1956, in Quebec, they shared not only nearly 69 years together but also the distinction of sharing the same anniversary date as Faye's parents.

Together, Ross and Faye embraced the adventures of military life, raising their family while moving between Air Force/Armed Forces postings across Canada and overseas. Their children—Sharon (1957), Stephen (1960), and Mitzi (1966)—were born in Cold Lake, Alberta, and Zweibrücken, Germany, reflecting a life that was rarely lived in one place for very long.

When military and federal government service came to an end, they chose to settle in Carman, Manitoba. It was, in true practical Murray fashion, the perfect location: close enough to Winnipeg to spoil the grandchildren and blessed with a golf course they both thoroughly enjoyed. They happily called 165 Main Street North home for more than 30 years.

Throughout her career, she wore many hats. She served her country as a military radar plotter, worked as a Warden's Assistant at Headingley Provincial Jail, helped countless customers at Eaton's in Winnipeg, and later worked as a finance clerk in the Base Comptroller's Section at CFB Shilo.

Long before the phrase "working mom" became commonplace, Faye was living it. She balanced career and family during an era when women were still fighting for workplace equality, financial independence, reproductive rights, and legal recognition. She quietly demonstrated that determination and competence could open doors that had long been closed.

History fascinated Faye. Genealogy became one of her great passions, and she delighted in uncovering the stories of both the Wallace and Murray families, whose histories were deeply intertwined with military service. If there was a family mystery to solve or an ancestor to track down, Faye was probably already halfway through the archives.

She was equally passionate about writing poetry. Family and friends quickly learned that birthdays and Christmas gifts often arrived with an original poem tucked inside. Her verses celebrated milestones, offered encouragement, and occasionally brought laughter. She had a gift for finding just the right words.

Faye also believed that life was meant to be shared. She was an active member of the Red Hat Society and Beta Sigma Phi, and she rarely sat still for long. Whether organizing events, volunteering, planning reunions, attending sisters' weekends, or enjoying many rounds of golf, she found joy in bringing people together. Her name appeared often in military newspapers, the Winnipeg Free Press, and the Carman Valley Leader—sometimes for organizing community events, sometimes for family reunions, and occasionally for posting an enviable golf score.

Of all her roles, however, being Grandma may have been her favourite. She treasured the time she spent teaching, encouraging, and caring for her four grandchildren: John Bain, Scott Bain, Travis Murray, and Kaye Bain. They were a constant source of pride, amusement, and love.

Faye will be remembered for her quiet strength, practical wisdom, fierce loyalty, and unwavering devotion to family. She was endlessly curious, remarkably organized, and always ready to help. She approached life with resilience, grace, and just enough stubbornness to keep everyone on their toes.

The family finds comfort in imagining Ross and Faye together once again—perhaps discussing the latest news, planning their next golf game, or debating whose turn it is to make the coffee.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg.

The interment of both Faye and Ross will take place at a later date at Zelma Memorial Cemetery, where Ross grew up. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Faye and Ross may be made to support the preservation and care of this rural cemetery. If you require any additional information, please contact Sharon Bain at 204-298-4467.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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