Franklin, VA – Florence Chapman Murray, 101, died Tuesday, May 19, 2009, at East Pavilion in Franklin, VA. Originally from Ontario, NY, Florence was born in 1907 in her family's farmhouse and grew up an only child. She graduated in the 1920's from Rochester Art Institute, now known as Rochester Institute of Technology, with a degree in art. After many years of working on the family farm and apple orchard, Florence and her husband, Lawrence, moved to Franklin in the mid-1970's to escape the harsh winters of the Webster area and to be closer to her daughter's family.
She attended regular gatherings of the High Street Seniors and faithfully attended Grace Memorial United Methodist Church of Sedley, VA., where she had been a long-time member. Her faith in God always gave her a positive outlook throughout her long life. She was a lover of animals, music and hearing or telling a great joke. She was always up for any adventure and never met a stranger. She enjoyed painting, cooking, socializing with family and friends, and anything that involved chocolate!
She was preceded in death by her husband, Lawrence, and daughter, Marsha Billings. Survivors include her son, Robert Murray and wife, Joey, of Chambersburg, PA; grandchildren, Tracy Outlaw, Sharon Baker, Scott Murray and Alan Billings; seven great-grandchildren, as well as extended family and friends.
A service celebrating her life will be conducted at 4 PM Thursday at Grace Memorial United Methodist Church with the Rev. Mary Marshall officiating. Interment will be at the family plot in Webster Cemetery, Webster, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Memorial United Methodist Church, 31036 Peachtree Ave., Sedley, VA. 23878.