Timothy V. Murray FRAIC, FRIBA, FAIA
May 6, 1930 – June 27, 2025
It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of our dearly beloved husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather, Timothy Vincent Murray on the 27th of June 2025. Loving and devoted husband of Jane Murray (nee Taylor) for 67 years. Proud father of Thady (Pamela), Sarah (Nicholas), Sean (Jamilah). Proud grandfather of Kris, Jeffrey Anthony (Wendy), Patrick Omar, Juliet (Michael), Maggie (Antoine), Rachael, Laila, Sophia (John), Liam, Philip, Timothy; and great grandfather to Desmond, Talia, Gabriel and Olivia. Beloved brother of the late William, Philip, and Patrick; and uncle to many cherished nieces and nephews.
Born in Dublin, Ireland, on May 6, 1930, Tim was the son of Thady Timothy Joseph Murray and Mary Theresa Purcell. He was one of four brothers raised in Phibsborough. His father, a Dublin City Councillor, Deputy Mayor, and former Garda, instilled in him a deep sense of civic duty and determination.
At an early age, Tim's education took him from Dublin to the countryside, where he attended Rockwell College as a boarder. There, he received a rigorous education steeped in Gaelic tradition, strict academic excellence, and the sport of rugby. These early experiences shaped his resilience and leadership throughout life.
At just 16 years of age, Tim was accepted into the School of Architecture at University College Dublin (UCD)—one of the youngest students ever to enroll, and where he continued to develop his love of watercolour painting.
Following his degree at UCD, Tim pursued a Master’s in Town Planning at the University of Liverpool. To support himself through school, he regularly performed as a pianist in local venues. Throughout his life, Tim could often be found at the piano, filling the room with warmth, humour and music.
Upon graduating from Liverpool, Tim worked at the London County Council to participate in post-war reconstruction of London. He fondly remembered his office view from LCC of Big Ben. In 1957, with post-war Britain still recovering, LCC offered a short foreign post to Baghdad or Ottawa. He chose Ottawa with “barely two nickels in his pocket”, traveling by Cunard’s Saxonia to Montreal Port, then train to Ottawa. Through his newfound rugby friends in Ottawa, he met the love of his life, Jane, …and the rest is history! Together their shared sense of adventure, humour and dedication to others, built the foundation of a life with rich friendships and a loving family.
Tim started working as an Architect and Town Planner with the Federal Government in Ottawa, then worked as a partner in a local architectural practice. A few years later Tim invited his younger brother Pat to join him in Ottawa. Eventually they founded the very successful firm Murray & Murray Architects, thoroughly enjoying working together, and leaving a lasting architectural legacy in Canada, UK, Ireland and Africa.
The architectural firm of Murray & Murray quickly rose to prominence in Ottawa’s design and development circles. Known for its commitment to excellence, thoughtful design, and mentorship, the firm became a springboard for many young professionals who would go on to distinguished paths of their own.
Tim will be remembered for his boundless creativity, his storytelling flair, the often repeated jokes, his music and wit, and his genuine joy in life.
Recipient of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee Medal,
Vatican’s Knight’s of St Gregory Medal,
Longtime Member of the Rideau Club Ottawa,
Four Arts Club in Palm Beach, and Kennebunk River Club
Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institutes of Canada, Ireland and England
Former Chairman of the Board at Ashbury College
Former Champion Barrel Jumper
Former Chairman of The Federal Design Review Committee NCC
Founder of Twin Elm Rugby Park, and the Ottawa Beaver’s Rugby Club
Former President of the Bytown Blues Rugby Club
REQUIESCAT IN PACE
Wednesday July 2, 2025, 6-8 pm, Visitation at Beechwood Cemetery.
Thursday July 3, 10:30 am Funeral Mass at Saint Theresa’s Catholic Church,
95 Somerset Street West, Ottawa.
Digital Guestbook
Gavan and Camille Power
Carol Anderson
Such a wonderful man - and boy, could he pound honky tonk on the piano. I worked with him when they were constructing City Hall. He had such a great sense of humor and will be missed. Our condolances to you all.
Austin Comerton
It is with sadness that I have learned of Tim's death. We enjoyed numerous breakfasts together. While regretful that I cannot be there to celebrate his life. I am where Tim's heart never left, Dublin. Condolences to all the family.
Stephen E. Mulligan
A mighty oak has fallen. You were a gentleman first who brought wit, kindness and laughter to The Grosvenor House. Prayers and thoughts for you, Jane and your family. Stephen
Catherine Bélanger
My deepest sympathy to the family. I met Tim and Pat the first time in 1980. I have many wonderful memories of them and the families, including some special projects they were involved in with the support of my late husband, Mauril Bélanger (e.g. the Ottawa Airport project). Rest in peace Tim, hopefully in great company with your brothers and others you had fun with. Cheers to a great soul.
Liz Rhodes
Wonderful memories of good times all together.
Billy Wilson Frank O’Mahony Jack Coughlan
Tim and Pat established an architectural and planning practice in Cork in 1970. They were joined later by Donough. They undertook the first UCC Development plan and were commissioned for the first two major buildings. The latter,the Boole Library is one of Tim’s finest works. The practice established new standards in architectural practice and we were one of the main beneficiaries. M+M was our Alma Mater. We hold very fond memories of working with Tim who always brought a sense of fun and innovation. It was a most exciting and stimulating place to work with the experience heightened by Tim’s frequent visits making us feel part of an international canvas. Ar dheis de go raibh a anam
Billy Wilson Frank O’Mahony Jack Coughlan
BARABARA ANN MACMAHON-FIRESTONE
Timothy was larger than life. He was a great friend, gentleman, athlete, architect, humanitarian, father, uncle, confident to many people and husband to the love of his life, Jane. His contribution to Rockcliffe park and all of Ottawa was unique as was his wonderful personality. He had a heart of gold, was brilliant, witty, caring, spiritual and adored his family. May he rest internal peace and may God bless and help his wonderful family during this trying and sad time. Please accept my prayers and amasses shall be said at St-Michael’s college university of Toronto
Barry McLoughlin & Laura Peck McLoughlin
Ireland has lost a true son and abiding friend. Tim was a man of whom I was honoured to be a friend. I loved his Irish wit, talents and upbeat view of life. He and Jane raised an amazing family, all of whom have become friends of ours. Our hearts go out to the entire Murray clan. Here is to you Tim and may we be forever in your debt. With love, condolences and great appreciation for all that you have accomplished and for what you have meant to so many people. That will live on forever. Barry & Laura
Denise Martel and David Bryden
Our deepest sympathies to Sarah and the Murray family. The Community has lost a great architect and civic builder.
Such a wonderful man who will be sorely missed. Condolences and hugs to the whole family. Will raise a glass in remembrance . Gavan and Camille.