Dennis A Murray, 81, of Dumont, NJ died at home peacefully surrounded by his family on 11/13/22.
He was the beloved husband of 57 years to Martha (nee Duffy), devoted father to Terence, Owen (Coleen) and Jen McKeague. He is also survived by his dear brother, Raymond (Helen). He was a proud grandfather to Sean, Brendan, Colin, Emmett and Ailish. He was also cherished by his extended family as brother-in-law and special Uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Dennis was born in NYC and raised in the Bronx. He graduated from St. Francis College in Brooklyn where he played basketball for the Terriers. “D Menace” met his lifelong companion, Martha on a fateful night at the Jersey Shore. It was at another chance meeting at the Inwood Lounge in NYC that sealed their partnership forever. They were married in 1965 and soon after Dennis served his country as part of the National Guard. He then began his 30+ year career in Sales with Proctor & Gamble.
In the late 1960’s Dennis & Martha settled in Dumont, NJ to raise their family. They soon became active and valued members of the community. Dennis spent over 10+ years coaching in Dumont. He served as commissioner & coach for the Dumont Little League. He also served as coach for the town rec and St. Mary’s CYO basketball programs.
He ran the Elbow Benders’ Dart League out of his beloved Duffy’s Tavern for over 20+ years. He was also one of the founding members and head coordinator of the famed Dumont Pentathlon annual sporting event from 1983-94.
Upon retiring in 1998, Dennis devoted his time to Volunteer work with activities such as the Bergen County – C.H.O.R.E program serving seniors and individuals with disabilities in the area with need of home-repairs. He also spent time with Meals on Wheels, Special Olympics and serving meals at the Interreligious Fellowship for the Homeless of Bergen County.
“D.A. Murray” had a passion for Kingston Trio music, Sam Adams drafts and sports. He loved following the Notre Dame football and basketball teams and his beloved Cleveland Indians and Cleveland Browns teams.
His happiest moments were spent on vacations with family and friends at Cape Cod.
He was known for his integrity, dedication, incredible organizational skills and being of service to others.
Loving son, caring sibling, adoring father, loving husband, respectful human being to all those he crossed paths with, This was the man we all knew and loved. We will love you forever.
Visitation will be held at Frech-McKnight Funeral Home on Friday, November 18th, beginning at 4pm and concluding at 8pm. The Funeral Mass will be offered at St. Mary’s R.C. Church at 11:00am on Saturday, November 19th.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dennis’ name to the following:
Missionaries of Charity – 168 Sussex Ave Newark, NJ 07103
St Mary’s Church – stmarysdumont.church.giving.com