Thomas W Murray, 84, of The Villages, FL, died peacefully at Cornerstone Hospice House on 10/29/17.
Born in Sutherland, Scotland, Tom began his career in the Royal Air Force flying the UK’s first fighter jets. He then transferred to the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1956, where he had a successful career training pilots and liaising with the USAF. In 1966, Tom was recruited by United Airlines and later in his career was Director of Pilot Training at Northwest Airlines. Tom loved flying in all its forms and greatly enjoyed his role as an instructor throughout his working life
Because of his career, Tom moved multiple times in the UK, Canada and the US. He was a lifelong Presbyterian and was a member of Presbyterian Church USA where he participated and served in many ways. For recreation, Tom and Lizette were enthusiastic golfers, enjoying playing courses around the country. Sailing and skiing were also a passion.
In The Villages since 2004, Tom has taught many the art of golf. At other times, he could often be found in the company of his faithful canine friends, Fergus and then Grover. Tom and his dogs were a fixture at Lake Sumter Starbucks. Tom’s stories of the earlier days of flying were always popular and he charmed everyone he met.
Tom is survived by his wife of 40 years, Lizette, and by his children Debra (Clive) Harper and Logan (Katy) Murray, his grandchildren Alex and Fiona Harper, as well as by his brother Alexander and his sister Catherine. He was preceded in death by his brother Donald and his sister Anne. Tom was very much loved by his family, his nieces and nephews and all who knew him.
Services will be held Friday, November 3, 2017, at 11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Wildwood, 203 Barwick Street, Wildwood, FL
Followed by a reception at Sumter Grand, 1490 Killingworth Way, The Villages.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to
First Presbyterian Church of Wildwood, 203 Barwick Street, Wildwood, Florida
or Marion County Humane Society. www.thehsmc.org
