Willard Howard Murray, affectionately known as “Willy” and “Willy Boy,” passed away on Nov. 3, 2026, following his journey with Alzheimer’s disease, surrounded by the love of his wife and children, who were by his side.
Born on Nov. 20, 1944, to Raymond and Pauline Murray, Will grew up in Winthrop alongside his sister, Eleanor LeLievre and brother Roger Murray, both of whom predeceased him.
Will made his home in Marblehead, where he and his beloved wife, Lynda, spent 46 years building a life filled with family, lasting friendships, adventures and countless memories.
A hardworking and ambitious man, Will founded and owned U.S. Roofing, taking great pride in what he built. After selling his company, he embraced retirement and the opportunity to enjoy life at a different pace.
Will loved adventure and friendship. In his earlier years, he enjoyed riding his Harley and going on road trips with good friends. He also appreciated a good cigar and driving his truck around his shop in Peabody.
Over the years, Will enjoyed traveling the world with Lynda and their friends, with a trip to Asia being a particular favorite. Some of his most cherished times, however, were spent closer to home. Summers meant family trips to Myrtle Beach, often with a caravan of friends and neighbors making the drive together. Holidays, especially Thanksgiving, were spent at the family’s home in North Conway, New Hampshire, where so many lasting memories were made.
Besides indulging in his favorite sweets, Will knew how to enjoy life’s simple pleasures. In his retirement, Will looked forward to wintering in Delray Beach, Florida, where he enjoyed the sunshine, friendships and daily visits to his favorite cigar bar.
He also had a wonderfully unpredictable side, often doing the most unexpected, sometimes downright silly things that left his family shaking their heads and laughing. While they may not have always understood what he was thinking in the moment, those are the very stories they are now so grateful to have, stories that will continue to bring laughter and keep his memory alive for years to come.
Above all, he always put his family first. For Will, success was never something to enjoy alone. He believed in sharing what he had worked so hard for with the people he loved most, giving his family opportunities to experience life, travel and make memories together. His generosity and the life he built for his family are gifts that will be cherished for generations.
Will leaves behind his beloved wife, Lynda Murray, and his cherished children: Kelley Delia of Bedford, Craig Murray and Niki Murray of Marblehead, and Michael Murray of North Reading. s.
He was the very proud Papa of eight grandchildren: Anthony, Joelle, Mikey, Jason, Shawn, Max, Mason, and Marshall, each of whom held a special place in his heart.
Will lived a full life, one filled with hard work, adventure, friendship and family. He leaves behind not only the people who loved him dearly, but also the traditions, stories and memories that will keep his spirit alive.
Forever loved, forever remembered and never forgotten.
Memorial visiting hours will be held on Thursday, Nov. 12, 3-7 p.m. at Eustis & Cornell of Marblehead, 142 Elm St. His celebration of life will be held on Friday, Nov. 13, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Boston Yacht Club, 1 Front St. Burial services will be private In lieu of flowers, donations in Will’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at eustisandcornellfuneralhome.com for Will’s loved ones.
