Johnny P. Murray

Johnny Paul Murray, 80, Grantsville, Utah passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Sept 27, 2024.  Johnny was born February 29th, 1944 in Tooele, Utah to Melba Alldredge and John Maurice Murray.

Johnny attended and graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf. While there, he was the student body president and was instrumental in a student strike over the oral and sign language segregation policy. 

He was an avid hunter and fisherman with a passion for the outdoors and wildlife.  He excelled in every sport that he participated in and was inducted into the Deaf Hall of Fame for Basketball and Softball in 1987.  He was a loyal and passionate BYU and Grantsville Cowboy’s fan. He was a huge support to his family and friends; rarely missing family gatherings, birthdays, and sporting events.  He loved playing cards and games. If you looked up the word competitive, his name would be next to it. 

One of the great joys of Johnny’s life was the enduring friendships he shared with his deaf friends.  From early years to his final days he cultivated deep, meaningful relationships with this group of friends who were family. Together, they shared laughter, countless memories, and stood by each other. These friendships, built on love, loyalty, and shared experiences, were a constant source of strength and happiness for Johnny. Their bond will remain unbroken, living on in the hearts of those who knew and cherished him.

Johnny lived life to the fullest through simple pleasures with his daughters, sons, grandkids and great grandkids as well as many friends in the community who lovingly called him Papa Johnny. He truly loved them all so much.

He will be missed for his kind and loving smile and his signature “I Love You” sign.

Survived by his children Jodi (Doug) Steinfeldt, Jennifer (Gene) Hoopes, Jon Travis (Sandy) Byrd, Roberta Byrd, Jarvis Murray and Justin (Casi) Murray. Brother: Howard (Pam) Murray and Sister: Deanna Cole.

Preceded in death by his daughter Jamie Byrd, grandsons Jordan Byrd and Jaevin Harris, his parents, brothers Wayne, Richard, Corky and Kenneth Murray.

Funeral services will be held Friday October 4, 2024 at 12:00 Noon in the Grantsville 3rd Ward, 428 South Hale Street.  Viewings will be held on Thursday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 pm also 10:00 to 11:30 am prior to services, BOTH at the church.  Burial will follow at the Grantsville City Cemetery.