Montalene Murray

Feb 23, 1938 -

Aug 23, 2026

In Loving Memory of Montalene Francene (Michaud) Murray

Montalene "Monty" Murray passed away on Aug. 23, 2026, in Homer, Alaska, exactly six months after celebrating her 88th birthday. Born on Feb. 23, 1938, in Custer, S.D., Monty lived a vibrant life filled with deep affection for the people and world around her. She was known for her sharp wit and quick laughter.

Driven by an adventurous spirit, Monty and her beloved husband, John Daniel "Dan" Murray, moved to Alaska in 1963 on what was meant to be a two-year contract with the FAA. They both came to love the state, stretching that stay into a lifetime of adventure. Together, they raised their four daughters while moving across Alaska, making lifelong friends everywhere they went. Monty was preceded in death by Dan in 2010, with whom she shared 51 years of marriage and countless cherished memories.

Monty was an avid reader, loved to garden and thoroughly enjoyed painting ceramics. Above all, she loved nothing more than gathering with friends and family to share a story and a laugh.

Her legacy of love lives on through her daughters: Lori Murray and Patty Murray of Homer, Mary (Bill) Barnhart of Mount Sterling, Ky., and Sharon (Mark) Morganti of Bothell, Wash. She is also survived by her granddaughter, Katherine Barnhart; and grandsons, Matthew Barnhart, Giovanni Morganti and Vincent Morganti. She will be profoundly missed and fondly remembered by them, their families and her many friends.

To honor her life and wishes, Lori, Patty, Mary and Sharon will gather with their families in Alaska in summer 2027 to celebrate Monty's life, share memories and honor the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Homer Senior Center, 3935 Svedlund Street, Homer, AK 99603, to support the community where she spent her final years; https://secure.qgiv.com/for/boardchallenge.