Thomas James Murray

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Tom Murray.

Tom was born in Los Angeles on March 19, 1945 and died peacefully on June 26, 2021 at Serenity House in Santa Barbara with his family by his side. He is survived by Carol, his loving wife for 55 years, his children Craig Murray, Deanna Spomer (Scott), David Murray (Robin) and James Murray (Kourtni), his nine grandchildren and his brothers Fred (Sandy) and Bob (Cindy). He was preceded in death by his parents Eldin and Lois Murray.

Raised in Southern California, Tom was the oldest of three boys and an incredible athlete. His family moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1962 where he met Carol, got married and started a family. In 1975 he wisely chose Carpinteria as the perfect place to make a home and raise children.

Tom spent most of his career life at Santa Barbara Research Center and Raytheon as an industrial engineer and manager. He truly cared for his team members, many of whom became lifelong friends. He was an incredibly giving person who looked out for the less fortunate and lent a hand to anyone in need.

Tom was an avid golfer throughout his life and for many years was a member of Los Paisanos Golf Club. He was a fiery competitor in general – whether it was ping pong, cribbage, billiards, poker or any other game of skill, you were likely to get skunked or separated from your funds. He loved baseball, both the Dodgers and the Angels, and horse racing.

Most of all, Tom loved his family. He was an amazing father who rarely missed his kids’ sporting events and was the centerpiece of holidays and family get togethers. He truly lit up when one of his grandkids was in the room. And he cherished his wife.

Although he had health challenges over the past few years, Tom kept his dry wit, flashy smile and charming demeanor until the end. We will miss him immensely.

Tom had compassion and generosity for the poor and homeless – donations in his memory could be made to Transition House or Salvation Army. A memorial service will be held Friday July 16th at 11:00 a.m.at the Carpinteria Cemetery Pavilion.