Mary Genevieve Murdoch's Obituary
Mary Genevieve (Cadigan) Murdoch, 84, passed away peacefully in Longview, TX on Saturday, October 14, after a brief illness.
Mary was born on January 5, 1939, to Charles and Mary Cadigan in Superior, Wisconsin. A highly educated woman, Mrs. Murdoch was a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Superior where she earned a bachelor’s degree in education and two master’s degrees in counseling. She also completed some doctoral work and prided herself on being a lifelong learner. In her professional career, Mary worked as a school teacher and guidance counselor before retiring. Mary moved to Longview, TX in May 1974, where she resided for the remainder of her life, aside from an 11-year break from 1988 to 1999 when the Murdochs returned to Racine, Wisconsin.
In 1971, she met the love of her life, Ian Murdoch, and they were wed on December 16, 1972. The couple went on to have a lovely daughter, Letitia, whom they affectionately called “Letty.” In 2022, they celebrated 50 years of marriage. The pair certainly made a marvelous team, and Ian is thankful for the wonderful years he shared with his beautiful bride by his side.
One of Mary’s greatest joys in life was being a mother and grandmother. She adored Letitia and her four grandchildren, Ian, Duncan, Daisy, and Declan. She enjoyed every moment she got to spend with them and served as a constant source of support and encouragement in their lives. Mary was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by her entire family.
As a woman of strong Christian faith, Mary regularly worshiped at St. Mary’s Catholic Church and sang in the choir. She also attended the women’s Bible Study Fellowship group for many years.
Mary is famous locally for her entertaining and educational portrayals of historical female figures. She has delightfully depicted noteworthy women such as Lady Bird Johnson, Eleanor Roosevelt, Queen Elizabeth, and Barbara Bush as well as Longview’s leading ladies Peggy Coghlan, Lois Jackson, and “Ma” LeTourneau. She spent hours carefully researching each role and selecting just the right costume to bring each character to life. Countless local groups have been blessed by her talents, and her efforts will long be remembered by her entire community.
Said by some to be a “professional volunteer,” if there was a noteworthy cause in Longview, Mary was sure to be present and serving in some capacity- most often leadership. During her time in Longview, Mary volunteered with Women in Longview, Longview Women’s Forum, American Heart Association, 100 Women Who Care, P.E.O. Sorority, The Longview Federated Clubs, The Zonta Club, Salvation Army, Opera East Texas, Longview Race Relations Committee, Longview Arts and Cultural Advisory Commission, and countless other organizations. She was once quoted as saying, “I would encourage people to volunteer because it is so heartwarming to reach out to others; the rewards are astonishing.” On multiple occasions, Mary was honored for her contributions and years of service. In 2011, she was named Longview’s Woman of the Year, and in 2008, she was recognized as a Star Over Longview. Her bright eyes, quick wit, big smile, and cheerful heart will be missed by all who loved and served alongside her.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Mary Cadigan, daughter, Letitia (Murdoch) Jordan, brother, Pat Cadigan, and her sisters Anne LeClaire, Tish Cadigan, and Frances Day.
Those left to cherish her memory are her loving husband, Ian, and grandchildren Ian, Duncan, Daisy, Declan, and their father Gregory Jordan, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Mary’s name to the Women in Longview Letty Murdoch Jordan Memorial Scholarship Fund. Donations may be sent to: Women in Longview, PO BOX 161, Longview, TX 75606. Please make checks payable to Women in Longview and note the funds are for the Letty Murdoch Jordan Memorial Scholarship Fund.
A rosary service will be held in honor of Mary at Rader Funeral Home Chapel in Longview, TX at 4:00pm on Friday, November 10th followed by a visitation
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