Rita Winifred Murray

Rita Winifred Murray, 84, passed away peacefully at her home in West Valley City, Utah, on September 1, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 3, 1940, in Flint, Michigan, to Richard Vincent Sweeney and Inda Winifred Riness. Rita was the eldest of five children, having two brothers, Jim Sweeney (deceased) and John Sweeney, and two sisters, Grace Sweeney (deceased) and Ruth McMunigal. 

Rita spent her early years in Flint Michigan, where she met the love of her life, Billy Gerald Murray. They got married on October 4, 1968, and later moved to West Valley City, Utah, to be closer to their cherished grandchildren. 

Rita was passionate about her career as a medical transcriber, often sharing captivating stories from her professional life. In her leisure time, she loved to travel, creating lasting memories on numerous cruises and adventures. Rita also enjoyed gambling, particularly playing slot machines, and frequently discussed planning trips to Wendover with her friends. Family was at the heart of Rita’s life. She treasured weekly outings and dinners with her loved ones and cherished visits from her friends Maxine Gordon, Hilda Perla, and Sue Pugh.

Rita is survived by her brother John Sweeney and sister Ruth McMunigal; Children Jo Ohumukini (Itasca), Linda Hudson, and Tena Komoroski; grandchildren Jacob and Chelsea Shaw, Melinda Stewart, Julie Tinnin-Howard, Pam Hutchinson, and Michelle Drewa-Hinkey; and her many nieces, nephews, and great-grandchildren.

Rita is preceded in death by her husband Billy Gerald Murray, parents Inda Riness and Richard Sweeney, and siblings Jim and Grace Sweeney.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Memorial Redwood Mortuary, 6500 South Redwood Road, West Jordan, Utah. You may visit with the family prior to services at a viewing from 9:00 to 10:45 AM. Interment will follow services at Memorial Redwood Cemetery.