Charles William Murray

Charles William Murray, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2026, at the age of 98, at his home in Circleville, NY

Born on December 1, 1927, in Middletown, NY, at Horton Hospital, Charlie was a lifelong resident of Circleville, where he built deep roots in the community and formed lasting friendships with neighbors and colleagues alike.

Charlie lived a long and meaningful life defined by family, laughter, dedication, kindness, and quiet strength. In his youth, he was one of the greatest athletes of his time, a highly recognized standout who excelled in baseball, basketball, and football at Middletown High School, and was frequently highlighted in the local paper.  His talent, determination, and love of sports left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege to watch him play.

He dedicated 47 years of service to Orange and Rockland Utilities, as a lineman, where he was respected for his hard work, reliability, and character. Even after retirement, Charlie maintained close friendships with many of his fellow workers, staying connected with them through regular breakfast get togethers at The Colonial Diner.

Charlie also cherished friendships with his neighbors on Renton Road, where they built their homes, raised their families, and began their working lives together. Those lifelong bonds remained an important and treasured part of his life.

Charlie was a devoted and loving husband to his high school sweetheart, Leona Hinckley, with whom he shared 68 years of marriage until her passing. Their enduring love was the foundation of a close and caring family.

Charlie was known for his steady presence, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to his family. Laughter was always at the core of the family he raised, and he took great joy in bringing people together. He especially loved regular family gatherings, most notably the annual Fourth of July celebration in Circleville, where the entire family would gather at his home and proudly walk together in the parade.

   Their family also looked forward each year to well-planned trips out west in their Dodge station wagon, creating cherished memories while visiting some of the nation’s most beautiful places, including Grand Canyon, Grand Teton National Park, and Rocky Mountain National Park. These adventures reflected his love of family, travel, and experiencing the natural beauty of the country.

He found joy in life’s simple pleasures—time spent with loved ones, meaningful conversations, and daily routines that reflected his disciplined and thoughtful nature, including his early morning workouts at the YMCA of Middletown, where he was such a familiar and dedicated presence that he was entrusted with his own set of keys.

    He is survived by his children, Charles Murray II, Thomas Murray, and Marianne Murray; his children’s spouses, Richard Rowley and Kimberly Carlson; He is also survived by his grandchildren and their spouses, Carly Murray, Connor Murray, Charles Murray III, and Michelle Murray; his step grandchildren, Andrew, Elizabeth, and Lauren Rowley and his great-grandchildren, Charles Murray IV, Andrew Murray, and William Murray.

 He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Leona Hinckley Murray; his daughter Peggy Murray, his brother, Harold Murray; and his beloved daughter-in-law, Dr. Rose DeLeo, who lovingly cared for both Charles and Leona as their physician for many years.

Charlie will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him—known affectionately as “Mr. Charlie” “G-Pa,” and “Chas.”

    A visitation for family and friends will be held from 2-5 PM Sunday, March 29th at Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Funeral Home 26 Grove St. Middletown.

    A private burial for family will follow.

    In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the YMCA of Middletown, or to Hospice of Orange & Sullivan Counties.

   Arrangements have been entrusted to Cornelius, Dodd & Connell Funeral Home, Middletown.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Charles William Murray, please visit our floral store.