We are sad to announce the passing of John Francis Murray on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at his residence, The Abbott House Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation in Lynn, MA. Born on January 6, 1956, and raised in Salem, Massachusetts. “Johnny” as many called him, graduated from Salem High School in 1965, was a US Navy Veteran, worked as a Salem Police Officer for a short time before settling into the linen business with his friend and partner, Bart with Butler Linen. Johnny worked at Butler Linen and also held side cleaning jobs at his favorite stomping ground, the Old Salt in Hampton, NH, prior to retiring 8 years ago. Johnny had many friends at the Old Salt and these relationships enriched Johnny’s being. Johnny was loved by many for his sense of humor and could put a smile on your face. Johny did not like drama. He was simple in that he enjoyed the important things like grilling Omaha steaks on the grill for his loved ones, visiting with family and loved ones, and being a community member in the Seacoast. Johnny loved all of the Boston sports teams and would see the games both in person, at the Old Salt with his buddies, or at home surrounded by his long time love (Philomena) and/or her children. Johnny could cook a fabulous burger and steak on the grill and enjoyed making a fire in their meticulously maintained (over 100 perennials) established backyard. Johnny and Philomena always had ingredients for s’mores.
Johnny is predeceased by both of his parents, Louise (Waite) Murray and William E. Murray, Jr., of Salem, his sister, Joan Tremblay of Salem, Barbara Bates of Salem, and brother William E. Murray III of Framingham. Johnny is most recently predeceased by the love of his life, the recently departed Philomena Garro Nicholson and their companion Kyoshi. He is survived by his brother, Thomas Murray of Saugus, MA, and his sister, Susan Longo of Georgetown, MA., one son, John Jr., Lynn, a step-son David Coon of Exeter, NH, 4 granddaughters, a Grandson, and several nieces and nephews.
Johnny had a loving and devoted extended family through Philomena, and loved all of the children and their spouses: Daughter Sherri (Richard) of Conway, NH, son Jim (Lori) of North Carolina, daughter Jodi (Josh) of West Newbury, MA, daughter Rebecca (David) of Woburn, and daughter Bobbi-jo (Tom) of Gloucester, 11 grandchildren and 2 great-grandsons who knew him as “Papa,” as well as all of the family pets, but Johnny had a particularly special bond with two of the dogs Ellie and Baby, whom he spent many of hours walking. Baby and Johnny understood each other.
Johnny received excellent care from his staff family at the Abbott House, from the housecleaning, to activities, to nurses aids, social worker, and nurses, Johnny was well taken care of and loved. Care Dimensions Hospice of MA, clinicians like no other. Their compassionate team played an integral part to Johnny’s transition and we thank them from the bottom of our hearts for taking care of Johnny during his journey here on earth.
Johnny did not wish to have a service or have things donated in his name. In honor of Johnny, we are asking that you enjoy today and get outside each and everyday, rain or snow. Visit the Old Salt where you just may end up making lifelong friends, as Johnny did. Don’t forget to have some fish! Johnny loved his seafood. Rest easy Johnny. We love you!!!