Donald R. Murray

Donald R. Murray, 83, of Rantoul passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, at his home with family by his side. He was born on September 17, 1942, in Providence, Rhode Island. The son of Henry F. and Mary M. Murray. Donald lived a life marked by dedication to his faith, family, and country.

Donald is survived by his wife, Cleo Knell-Murray; children: Timothy (Pam) Murray of Hayward, WI; Brian Murray of Rantoul, IL; Lynn (Chris) Young of San Antonio, TX; and Michelle Campbell; stepson: JL Knell of Champaign, IL; grandchildren: Marisa (David) Murray-Brandyberry, Noah (Emily) Murray, Lauren Murray, Mackenzie Murray, Gavin Campbell and Garrett Campbell; step-grandchildren: Graham Kessler, Clayton Kessler, Hunter Knell, and great grandchild: Finn Murray-Brandyberry.

He is preceded in death by his mother and father, first wife, Charlene (Martin) Murray, brother, Henry, and sisters, Marilyn and Barbara Jean.

Donald was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force and dedicated over 35 years of civilian service to the Dept. of the U.S. Air Force before retirement. He was a lifelong member of St. Malachy Catholic Church, Rantoul, IL; Good Shepard Catholic Church, Schertz, TX; and the Knights of Columbus, Rantoul, IL.

His passions extended beyond his family and military service. Donald was a skilled artisan who found joy in creating stained-glass pieces. He also enjoyed playing cribbage and had a deep appreciation for music.

A memorial visitation to honor Donald’s life will be held from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm Monday, May 25, 2026, at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center’s Lux Chapel, 1551 E. Grove Ave. Rantoul, IL 61866. A graveside service will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Rantoul, IL.

Memorial donations may be made in Donald’s name to The Disabled American Veterans (DAV) www.ihelpveterans.org and/or to the St. Malachy Dominic Hall fund https://www.osvhub.com/stmalachyparish/giving/funds .