John Eugene Moray was born on October 23, 1928 to Thomas Henry Moray and Ella Emma Ryser Moray. John passed away peacefully at LDS Hospital on December 16, 2021 at 3:10 am. Prior to his passing, John was surrounded by his family for several days. John was a very loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, as well as a friend to many. His family shared many memories with each other and John, as his passing was imminent. He was preceded in death by his parents Thomas Henry Moray and Ella Emma Ryser; sisters, Evelyn Moray Haynes, Sylvia Moray Weaver, brothers Richard Ryser Moray and Junior.
John was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. He graduated from the University of Utah with a BA in Military Science, Physics, Chemistry and Math. John was devoted to his work in scientific research, following in the footsteps of his father in the pursuit of radiant energy. He retired as a Colonel from the United States Army after 30 years of service. John loved military strategy and politics and had strong opinions that he loved to share with others.
John married the love of his life Emma Lou Romney on December 26, 1952, in the Salt Lake City LDS Temple. John and Emma Lou were overjoyed to start a family and John was blessed to be the father to four children, Rebecca (Martin) Wright; Kevin Romney (Christine) Moray; Cynthia Lou (Steven) Wright; and Patrick John Moray. He is survived by eleven grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.
John was a vibrant and fun man. His children have many memories of building snow forts, swing sets, learning to ride bikes, camping, reading books, telling stories, singing lullabies and watching cartoons.
John was active in Kiwanis International for 63 years, serving as Governor of the Utah-Idaho District from 1991-1992. He enjoyed playing Santa Claus for 30 years to the delight of his family and many children. He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and served in many different callings throughout his life. He served two missions, one as a young man to the New England States Mission and one with his wife Emma Lou and son Patrick to the California San Diego Mission.
John was very active in Scottish Festivals representing the Moray/Murray clan for many years. His love of his Scottish heritage has carried on to his children and grandchildren. He was fortunate to visit Scotland and have the opportunity while there to visit the Moray Firth, origin of the Moray clan.
Services will be held at the Monument Park Ward building, 1005 South 2000 East, Salt Lake City, on January 7th at 12:00 p.m. A viewing will be held prior to the service at 10:30 am. Interment will be held at the Salt Lake City Cemetery with full military honors. Services will be available via Zoom through Larkin Mortuary. The family recommends wearing a mask to the viewing and service if you attend in person.
Monument Park Ward is inviting you to view the service via Zoom if preferred:
Topic: John Moray Funeral Services
Time: Jan 7, 2022 12:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)
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Cindy Lou Poliska
I admired John E Moray for his dedication to the work of his father, Thomas Henry Moray. We both knew he was right. It wasn't as others say. He did have the "elegant" solution. He wanted it for the world in the most unselfish, loving and beneficent way. I wish I could have done more, John, to make it happen in your lifetime. I went to the conference in Albuquerque and represented you and your Dad as best I could. I'm still searching. You weren't alone. There is another. I still believe it'll happen, maybe in my lifetime, maybe because of some work we did to make people pay attention. I wish you would have been here to see it, but from where you are, you'll have a front row seat, I know. Rock On.
Dear Moray Family, I was saddened to hear of the passing of sweet Brother Moray. I feel so blessed that I was able to serve in the greatest mission in the world with Elder, Sister, and Elder Patrick Moray. You all blessed anyone who knew you. You are such special people to me and I send you love and prayers at this time of loss. What a life well lived.
Love, “Sister O’Brien”
Dearest Emma Lou and family,
Please accept my most sincere condolences on Johnny’s death. I know it was very hard for him to be the last of his immediate family members to go. I am sure that your faith will sustain you during this difficult time.
So sorry that the Covid-19 surge we are currently undergoing makes it necessary for us to attend his service by Zoom, but thank you for making this alternative possible.
With Much Love,
Ann
Dear Chris and Kevin,
I saw this photo and name and knew right away that this is your dad. I pray that angels are surrounding you with love and peace. What a great man! Hugs to you and your family. Love you, Janae
Rebecca, I'm so sorry to hear about your Dad. Wishing you peace and comfort during this difficult time. Angela
Angela,
Thank you so much for your kind thoughts. I am delighted to hear from you and have wanted to reconnect for many years. I hope you are well and enjoying an interesting life in Helper. In case it does not show up, my email address is rwrightlpcc@gmail.com. Would love to hear from you if you are interested. All the best,
Rebecca
So sorry for your loss. I enjoyed visiting with him. My thoughts and prayers are ith you, Emma, and your family. Love ❤