Virginia Goodloe Murray

Virginia Goodloe Murray, 89, died on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at her residence in Columbus, GA.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 PM Friday, March 31, 2023 in the chapel of McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory with Matthew Jones officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home an hour prior to the service at the funeral home, 3874 Gentian Blvd. Columbus, GA 31907. A private interment will be held at Parkhill Cemetery.

Virginia was born on November 10, 1933 in Valdosta, GA to the late Wallace Pardee Goodloe and Eva Butler Goodloe. She is preceded in death by her younger brother, Pardee Goodloe. She attended Valdosta High School, where she played basketball and served as Senior Class Treasurer. Virginia fostered a love for sports all her life, and was a dedicated fan of Auburn Football and the Atlanta Braves.

She met William “Jerry” Murray, her husband of 69 years, while working as a telephone operator for Southern Bell. They married in 1953. Together they raised three daughters: Phyllis Murray Duke, Judy Murray Stickel, and Leslie Murray Hooper. Virginia’s family was everything to her. She had eight granddaughters, some of whom she helped raise. As they grew older, she continued to show them her love through birthday cards, handwritten letters, and phone calls.

Virginia was a member of Edgewood Church of Christ for over 60 years. She taught Bible classes there for over 30 years. Virginia lived her entire life as a follower of Jesus Christ, spending each day serving those around her. She visited the elderly and brought meals to people in need. She used her sewing talents to make caps and pillows for cancer patients, as well as dolls and blankets for children in the hospital. She was a wonderful friend to countless individuals.

She is survived by her husband of 69 years William “Jerry” Murray of Columbus, GA, three daughters, Phyllis Duke (Curtis) of Midland, GA,  Judy Stickel (Greg) of Alpharetta, GA, Leslie Hooper (Donny) of Greensboro, GA, eight granddaughters, Virginia Ring (Brett) of Carrollton, GA, Emily Carney (Chris) of Bishop, GA, Sarah Rodesney (Nick) of Madison, WI, Caroline Stickel of Orem, UT, Kate Stickel of Alpharetta, GA, Ellie Stickel of Alpharetta, GA, Abby Hooper of Columbia, SC, Lilly Hooper of Charlotte, NC, great-grandson, Jack Carney and numerous nieces, nephews, and other family members.

Flowers will be accepted. Those who wish may make contributions to Columbus Hospice House at 7020 Moon Road, Columbus, GA 31909.