Community Mourns Deacon Emerson Murray: A Legacy of Faith and Family

Community Mourns Deacon Emerson Murray: A Legacy of Faith and Family

On October 27, 2025, the close-knit community of Rubonia, Florida, mourned the passing of Deacon Emerson Talmage Murray, affectionately known as „Sonny.“ Born on June 7, 1934, in Jasper, Florida, Emerson was a beloved member of his hometown, contributing both to his family and the wider community throughout his life. His roots run deep in Manatee County, where he received his education in the local public schools.

Emerson’s career spanned over three decades at Rinker Materials Cement Company in Palmetto, Florida, where he worked as a cement truck driver. Retirement did not slow him down; he moved on to become a bus driver for the Boys and Girls Club of Manatee County, demonstrating his commitment to the youth in his community.

A Life of Faith and Service

Throughout his life, Emerson was a person of deep faith. He accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior at a young age, which led him to be ordained as a deacon at the Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church in Rubonia. His spiritual journey influenced many, and he served tirelessly until he fell ill.

Emerson leaves behind a sprawling family legacy, including his wife Ora Lee and their children: Alton E. Murray, Sr., Felix Bush, Lorraine (Murray) Castleberry, Gerald (Mary) Murray, Patricia (Tommie) Anderson, Tonya (Percy) Bridgeman, and Wanda Bush. He is also remembered fondly by his siblings and a multitude of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family members.

His siblings included Johnny (Shirley) Murray, Reverend Wallace (Dovie) Murray, Emma (Randolph) Hodo, and Cora Lee Fobbs. Emerson’s brother and sisterhood extended even further with numerous other relatives, showcasing a strong familial bond that cherished their shared history in Rubonia.

The Murray Legacy

Murray State University, although located in Kentucky, adds another dimension to the Murray name. The university offers a diverse range of academic programs and has been recognized for its value and excellence in education, particularly in fields such as physics, nursing, and music. With a strong focus on hands-on opportunities and small class sizes, Murray State University nurtures its students, much like Emerson did in his community.

This dedication to education reflects the kind of values Emerson imparted to his family. His descendants now span generations, with 58 great-grandchildren and 23 great-great-grandchildren, a testament to his enduring influence and the legacy he has created.

As the community of Rubonia remembers Emerson Talmage Murray, his legacy will continue to thrive through the lives he touched and the strong family connections he fostered. As they say, „there’s something to be said for it,“ and in this case, the warmth and love he cultivated will undoubtedly echo through generations to come.

While Emerson has left this world, his spirit and the lives of those he cherished will carry on, much like the values upheld at the renowned Murray State University where education and community support stand at the forefront.