Obituary of Murray W. Smithers

OSWEGATCHIE- Murray W. Smithers, age 64, of Oswegatchie, NY passed away on April 26, 2024 at home under the care of this loving family and hospice. There will be calling hours for Murray on Thursday, May 2, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at French Family Funeral Home in Star Lake. His funeral service will immediately follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Roger Benjamin officiating. Burial will follow in Oswegatchie Cemetery. Condolences may be shared online at www.frenchfuneralhomes.com. Murray was born on March 12, 1960 at Clifton-Fine Hospital to the late Walter E. and Sarah (Durham) Smithers. He graduated from Clifton-Fine Central School in 1978. Murray married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Teri Grammo on July 5, 1980 in Star Lake, NY. From 1981-1987, Murray worked for Marathon Oil Company as a hydraulic relief operator in Iraan, Texas. It was during this time the couple started a family. Giving life to daughters Jessica and Sara. After the death of his mother, Murray decided to move his family back home to Oswegatchie, NY. Shortly after his return home his family was complete with the birth of his son Murray (II). Murray and his wife Teri owned and operated Parkside Grocery from November 1987 until April 1998. From 1999 until 2010 Murray was employed by Sunmount DDSO before becoming disabled. During his career for Sunmount, Murray worked various houses throughout St. Lawrence County. Murray was a member of the Sons of American Legion, former President at Clifton-Fine Arena, well known for playing horseshoe's and winning several tournaments with his good friend/brother-in-law David, and a loyal member to the NRA. Murray loved to be outside. He could usually be found on his side by side, his tractor or just simply sitting out by his fire pit having a beverage. Murray enjoyed hunting, fishing, spending time at hunting camp with his son and brothers-in-law. He also enjoyed making maple syrup, especially if the grandkids were helping. The thing Murray enjoyed most was being around family. Murray taught his kids at a young age that the most important thing in life is FAMILY. Murray was a proud husband, father and Papa. As Murray got older in life, he always wished he could do more to give back to his community. He often talked about how it would be and amazing feeling to be rich and just go hand money out to people he thought needed help, especially during the Christmas Season. Three years ago, Murray came up with a great idea to hand out turkey's and Ham's to community members for the holiday season. His family enjoyed it so much that they continue to do this. It is a tradition that Murray's family will continue to do for years to come. Murray is survived by his beloved wife, Teri Smithers; two daughters, Jessica (Derek) LaDuc and Sara (Mike LaPlant) Smithers; his son Murray (Sarah) Smithers II; three sisters, Naomi Pitts, Nora Buckley and Doreen Salcido; six grandchildren, Riley, Logan, Landon, Philias, Kohrie and Emery; a great granddaughter, MaeveLynne and several nieces and nephews. Murray is predeceased by his parents Walter and Sarah Smithers; his beloved Aunt Marion Durham; Brother-in-laws David Salcido, Forrest Pitts and Bernard Buckley and his very close cousin Jerry Durham. Donations may be made in Murray's memory to the Star Lake Rescue Squad or to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley.