Obituary of Murray Ernest Pemberton

On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, just one day after turning 70, Murray passed away peacefully following a brief stay in Valley Regional Hospital, Kentville. He was surrounded by his loving family during his final days. Many cherished memories of Murray were shared, bringing moments of both laughter and tears.   

Murray was born on October 1, 1954, in Windsor to the late Ernest and Jean (Brown) Pemberton. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 50 years, Peggy (Wilson); children, Jamie (Shiloh), Megan, and Charles (Amber); and beloved grandchildren, Jesse, Wesley, Brantley, Austin, and Wrenley. He is also survived by his younger brother and sister, Tim (Shirley) and Sherri (John Donald), as well as numerous other family members and dear friends. 

In his final year of high school, Murray attended Windsor Regional, where he met Peggy, the woman he would marry three years later. After graduation, Murray briefly worked as a milkman for Farmer’s Dairy before shifting his focus to farming at his wife’s family farm, Bovidae, owned by the Wilsons. After more than 25 years dedicated to farming and raising their three children, Murray embarked on a new journey as a self-taught carpenter. He spent 18 years mastering the craft, working right up until shortly before his passing. His workmanship was admired and well known for its precision, quality, and attention to detail, which he took great pride in. Murray used his carpentry skills not only to support his growing family but also to build special projects that brought happiness to his loved ones, creating lasting memories and meaningful connections along the way. 

At the age of 18, Murray was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses. His faith guided him through life and he firmly believed that if ever he fell asleep in death, he would be safe in God’s memory, awaiting his wake-up call. He was dedicated to helping others in the congregation, volunteering his time and skills to support its activities, strengthen the family-like bonds, and uplift those in need. He was a man of strong convictions, guided by principles of kindness, compassion, and integrity. His unwavering belief in the importance of service inspired those around him to make a positive difference in the lives of others. 

As we say goodbye to Murray, we hold close to our hearts the many wonderful memories he created. His gentle spirit, warm smile and unique sense of humour will be forever cherished by all who knew and loved him. 

The family would like to thank Dr. Alfredo De la Torre and the nurses in the hematology department of the Dickson building for their attention and treatment of Murray’s health over the last few years, as well as Dr. Kathryn Cull and the exceptional staff at Valley Regional Hospital. We truly appreciate the kindness and care you provided Murray during the last week of his life. 

Arrangements for cremation have been entrusted to DeMont Family Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 419 Albert St., Windsor (902-798-8317), where the family invites you to visit with them on Thursday, October 10 between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m. A memorial service of Murray’s life will be held on Friday, October 11 at 2:00 p.m. (ADT), at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 7027 Highway 14, Sweet’s Corner. A zoom link to virtually watch the memorial can be found here: zoom.us/signin#/login (Meeting ID # 570 304 741 Passcode: 001172). Murray will be laid to rest at a later date, during a private interment in Oak Hill Cemetery, Ellerhouse. In lieu of flowers, donations in Murray’s memory may be made to the IWK Foundation, 5855 Spring Garden Rd. Suite B220, Halifax, NS B3H 4S2 or to donate/jw.org. Messages of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting: www.demontfamilyfuneralhome.ca.