Barbara Tait Murray

Barbara Tait Murray, a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, peacefully passed away into the loving arms of her Heavenly Father on May 1, 2024, at the age of 91.  Born on December 23, 1932, in Enterprise, UT, she was the eighth of nine children born to George Huntsman Tait and Laura W Sophia Staheli Tait.

Barbara’s life was marked by faith, resilience, and love. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, she found solace in her beliefs and shared that light with those around her. Her journey took her from the small town of Enterprise to Caliente, Nevada, during World War II, where she experienced both joy and sorrow.

Education played a significant role in Barbara’s life. She attended Enterprise Elementary School and later graduated from high school in a class of just five boys and five girls. Determined and hardworking, she also pursued studies at Dixie College.

It was during her time working at Mountain Bell in Milford, UT, that Barbara met her sweetheart, John Derlin Murray. Their love story blossomed, and they were married on June 20, 1953, in Enterprise. Their marriage was later sealed in the Provo Utah Temple. Derlin’s passing in 1980 left a void in her heart, but his memory continued to inspire her.

Barbara’s legacy lives on through her children: Paula Carter, Kaylene VanWagenen, Bruce Derlin (Ann) Murray, and Becky (Don) Corbett. She cherished her role as a grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother, leaving behind a remarkable lineage of 12 grandchildren, 34 great-grandchildren, and 8 great-great-grandchildren (with 2 more on the way).

Besides Derlin, she was preceded in death by her parents and siblings. Her grandson Gary Carter, granddaughters Sarah Ann Murray, and Ashley Dawn Sanchez, as well as sons-in-law Gary Carter and Steven VanWagenen, also await a joyful reunion.

As we gather to celebrate her life, we honor Barbara’s memory. 

Barbara was an avid reader and would not be an exaggeration to say that she has read well over 3000 books. There was never a book she wouldn’t give a chance. 

Barbara Tait Murray’s kindness, strength, and unwavering faith will forever resonate in our hearts. We are grateful to know that our Heavenly Father’s plan of happiness reunites families beyond this mortal existence. May she rest in eternal peace.

A special heartfelt thanks to SunCrest hospice for their tender hearts and kind hands as they ministered to her during her last weeks. 

A viewing for family and friends will be held Friday, May 17, 2024 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Wheeler Mortuary, 211 East 200 South in Springville followed by graveside services at 11:00 in the Springville Evergreen Cemetery.



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