Kevin Earl Murray

Kevin Earl Murray, age 34, of Vandalia, MO tragically passed away Friday, February 18, 2022.

Kevin was born on April 1, 1987, in Town and Country, Missouri, the son of John and Victoria (Carlisle) Murray. Kevin cared deeply about furthering his education, service to his country and dedication to his family.

Kevin was extremely driven. He graduated high school at the age of 16, technical college at 18 and joined the United State Air Force at 19. Kevin excelled at everything he did. He completed numerous certification programs through Vatterott College, the United States Air Force, MU Law Enforcement Training Institute and the Missouri Department of Corrections.

From 2006 to 2010, Kevin honorably served his country in the United States Air Force. He served in Afghanistan, Iraq, and was able to travel to all seven continents during his service. Kevin was an Aircraft Loadmaster, which is a vital part of every flight. He was a skilled marksman and trained others in firearms use as well. His education and experience led him to pursue a career with the Missouri Department of Corrections.

When Rachael and Henry came into his life he was given a second chance at happiness. He was incredibly devoted and proud. Everything they did, they did as a family. Kevin loved spending family time watching movies including his favorite character, Batman; playing board games and video games.

Survivors include fiancée, Rachael Elyse Kohl and their 22 month-old son, Henry Allen Murray; 15 year-old daughter, Rachel Michele Murray; parents, John and Victoria Murray, all of Vandalia; brothers, Thomas Irby Carlisle of Truesdale, MO, David Wayne Gadberry and Joshua Allen Murray of Vandalia; many other beloved
aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Earl Monroe and Minnie Mae Murray; maternal grandparents, Coleman Irby and Shirley May Carlisle; aunt Rebecca Jo (Carlisle) Spitznagel, James Monroe Murray, Ernest Franklin “Hank” Murray and Larry Wayne Murray.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 pm Friday, February 25, 2022, at Waters Funeral Home. Bro. Kenny Haddock will officiate, Rev. Bob Hoehn will assist with the services. Burial will be in the Fairmount Cemetery in Middletown, MO following the service.

Visitation celebrating Kevin's life will be held at 11:00 am until the time-of-service Friday, February 25, 2022, at the Waters Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Thomas Carlisle, David Gadberry, Joshua Murray, Evan Case, Jon Jones, and Mike Tapley.

Honorary pallbearer Grant Grimes.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to help with expenses may be made to Rachael Kohl, in care of Waters Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be made to the family and video tribute may be viewed on Kevin’s memorial page at www.watersfuneral.com