Jonnie Mae Murray was born in Wheeling, West Virginia on August 11, 1931 to the late James and Lela Mae Ingalls. She was the tenth of thirteen children. She was preceded in death by five brothers, James, Jr., Samuel, Daniel, Wallace and Frank; and six sisters, Alma Anderson, Lucille Foster, Esther Bond, Mary Winchester, Elizabeth Morgan and Lorraine Ingalls. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband William (Bill) Murray, Sr. She departed this life peacefully in her home on June 25, 2025, surrounded by family.

Jonnie Mae, as she was affectionately called, was educated in the Salem and Camden, New Jersey school systems. She was a conscientious student, and participated in the high school spiritual choir and softball.

Jonnie worked at the Campbell Soup Company for several years after graduating high school before beginning a career as a claims representative for the Social Security Administration, where she worked for many years and then retired.

Jonnie was married on November 3, 1950 to the love of her life William (Bill) Murray, Sr. From this union, God blessed them with three beautiful children, Janice, William, Jr., and Diane. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, and dear friend to many. Throughout her life, Jonnie was a true care giver to family and friends. She had a large extended family and shared her love of family with many. She was a well respected community member and moved through life with integrity and generosity.

Jonnie was a devoted grandmother. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and cherished spending time with them. She found immense joy in watching them grow up, attending school and sporting events, taking care of them, and was incredibly proud of all her grandchildren’s accomplishments. She was a source of wisdom, strength, and unconditional love for them, and taught them the importance of family, kindness, God, and respect. Her influence on their lives will be felt for generations to come.

In addition to her love of family, Jonnie was passionate about cooking, sewing, bowling, dancing, reading, puzzles, and watching and playing sports. Her cooking was a reflection of her love for family and friends, always made with care and always delicious, especially her peach cobbler and home made breads.

Jonnie lived her life as a testament to her love of God. She joined New Wesley AME Zion Church in 1962, where she served as a Deaconess and on numerous ministries. She was a member of the Finance Team, Gospel Choir, After School Program, Young Women’s Choir, Women’s Club, Steward Board, Missionary Society, Lay Council, and served as a delegate for the NJ Annual Conference.

Jonnie leaves to cherish her memory three children, Janice Laury, William, Jr. (Lana), Diane Powell (Aaron); six grandchildren, Imani Bell, William Murray, III (Kimian), Mariah Powell, Tariq Murray, Aliyah Murray, and Noelle Powell; three great-grandchildren, Yaa-Nailah Bell, William Murray IV, and Kenzo Murray; one sister, Gladys Powell; and a host of nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.

Lovingly Submitted,

The Family

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the William and JonnieMae Memorial Scholarship Fund.