The goodness you have given to the world is apparent on this blog. It will live on in the memories of those who knew you. I remember the high school swimmer, the athlete, the friend in college who always had standards for herself that were inspiring to the rest of us because you actually lived up to them. OK, so that could be a bit intimidating, except that you made sure it wasn't.  A great sense of humor and a determination to do the right thing...how lucky are those of us who knew you to see such an example not in a book but lived in a real life.

Even when things were tough, and I remember some times that really were, you managed to keep your forward momentum fueled by a positive outlook. Obviously it worked. You accomplished so much, had the family you'd always wanted, and helped so many people.

God is in the mix. He knows what he is doing.  We have to trust that it is so, and I believe it is. He will watch over your family, and he will bring the sun up again and again, until the pain is less but the memory of your good life all the more vivid. And that will be a beautiful day won't it?  Almost as beautiful as the day when we all meet again.

Memory Eternal to Dr Kelly Murray and her daughter Sloane. She was a remarkable person and excellent professor. My condolences to her husband and all family members. She will live in many through the skills and knowledge she passed to her students and patients.

Though I graduated one year ago I am so saddened by Dr Kelly and her daughter's passing. It was like yesterday that I said goodbye to her her book signed before returning to Singapore. Dr Kelly, you have been such an icon in the Columbia Campus. You will be missed so much. Thanks for everything.

Joachim

  I was devastated to hear about the tragic death of Kelly and Sloan. I consider myself so fortunate to have been blessed with a kind, gentle, and encouraging mentor over many years. She regularly challenged and inspired me to overcome obstacles since I first met in 2001. I was so fortunate to have our connection grow from adviser to friend over many years of interaction. Kelly would always find the positive possibilities when I was stuck in my own doubts. She possessed an insight and wisdom beyond her years and I benefited and grew with every conversation with her. She would gently remind me that I was not perfect as a student, clinician, or parent and then reorient me in a positive direction.
I am so fortunate to have had Kelly as a mentor for so many years and I hope that I can emulate her daily in all parts of my life. I can only pray for Kelly's family and the PC community as we all try to heal and make sense of this terrible loss. I hope each day I can honor Kelly's memory by always trying to help other find the spirit of possibilities in their struggles.

Finally, I could log-in my new email today.
I heard the tragic news 6 days after through the Sunday Washington Post. That was one of the saddest and the most heartbreaking accdents I've heard in my life.
I took her Psychopathology's class last Spring. It was the first semester and the first class at the Loyola.  A young beautiful professor read a prayer before the class, which was a very impressive to me as a new student.  She was always energetic with full of energy, positive encouragement, and beautiful smile, and she became my 'idol'... perfect woman I admired, indeed.

Dr, kelly,
YOU will be remebered by every person who knows you...
I'll keep praying for your daughters and husband...and parent.
Thanks for all you've dong for us.

I had to wonderful opportunity to share sacred space with Dr. Kelly Murray in the year 2004. I was just entering Loyola. I remember my Psychopatholgy Class being a wonderful experience from a wonderful women. I so admire her care and the energy that she brought to class. The presence of the divine within her will always be remembered. Dr. Kelly thank you for demonstrating that people were more than a diagnoses. I will say prayers for your husband, daughters and family. Rest in the wonderful energy and presence of God!

I was fortunate enough to take the 3 cognate classes that Kelly Murray taught in the new program of Spirituality and Trauma.  Kelly was a consumate woman.  From the very first class, I knew that she had a solid heart of compassion and mindfulness that touched all of us.  Her smile and spirit was pervasive.  Leaning more about responding in crisis, competency, self care,  were all moving topics , as she was the model for what healthy relationships were about.  I will never forget the comforting words she gave me when I began working through a trauma:create a happy box, be mindful and remember their are choices.  Kelly spoke about opportunity and being wounded. 
Classes were filled with Kelly's family stories.  Especially about the surprise birthday she had.  I pray everyday for the family to have comfort and ease, knowing what a special person she was and that she continues to live in our hearts.

At the beginning of each psychopathology class (Spring, 2007), Kelly would read a poem or a prayer.  I looked forward to hearing these inspirational words as much as I looked forward to learning  how to understand the various DSM-IV-R diagnoses.  A common theme in these readings was how important it is to see the beauty in life every day and to appreciate life.  I have no doubt that Kelly did just that.  "The Most Beautiful Flower" is one poem I remember Kelly reading.  I thought some of you might enjoy reading it.

The Most Beautiful Flower

The park bench was deserted as I sat down to read
Beneath the long, straggly branches of an old willow tree.
Disillusioned by life with good reason to frown,
For the world was intent on dragging me down.
And if that weren't enough to ruin my day,
A young boy out of breath approached me, all tired from play.

He stood right before me with his head tilted down
And said with great excitement, "Look what I found!"
In his hand was a flower, and what a pitiful sight,
With its petals all worn - not enough rain, or too little light.
Wanting him to take his dead flower and go off to play,
I faked a small smile and then shifted away.

But instead of retreating he sat next to my side
And placed the flower to his nose
And declared with overacted surprise,
"It sure smells pretty and it's beautiful, too.
That's why I picked it; here, it's for you."
The weed before me was dying or dead.
Not vibrant of colors: orange, yellow or red.

But I knew I must take it, or he might never leave.
So I reached for the flower, and replied, "Just what I need."
But instead of him placing the flower in my hand,
He held it mid-air without reason or plan.
It was then that I noticed for the very first time
That weed-toting boy could not see: he was blind.

I heard my voice quiver; tears shone in the sun
As I thanked him for picking the very best one.
You're welcome," he smiled, and then ran off to play,
Unaware of the impact he'd had on my day.
I sat there and wondered how he managed to see
A self-pitying woman beneath an old willow tree.

How did he know of my self-indulged plight?
Perhaps from his heart, he'd been blessed with true sight.
Through the eyes of a blind child, at last I could see
The problem was not with the world; the problem was me.
And for all of those times I myself had been blind,
I vowed to see the beauty in life,
And appreciate every second that's mine.

And then I held that wilted flower up to my nose
And breathed in the fragrance of a beautiful rose
And smiled as I watched that young boy,
Another weed in his hand,
About to change the life of an unsuspecting old man.


© Cheryl Costello-Forshey

I was fortunate to be a TA for Kelly in 2005, or 2006. She responded to me as a colleague immediately and as a nervous novice, I was deeply grateful. Along with others, I was constantly amazed at her intellect, energy, commitment, passion for learning, earthy spontaneity and sense of humor, and love, for her family and the PC family. How did she do it all? Really??!! And keep on smiling and laughing? I'll still never know her secret...My husband Scott and I have been blessed to know Kelly and we know that she and Sloane are with the angels and continue to guide their family with their radiant love.

My prayers are with you - the Loyola community and everyone there who is going through this difficult period. I am trying to deal with the loss myself since she was going to be giving the Spirituality and Trauma Certificate. Kelly's death has robbed Loyola of a gallant professor. That certificate course will not be the same without her. So please pass my sincere condolences to the whole Loyola Community especially the Pastoral Department. I am saddened by her passing away and her daughter too.

Blessings and peace!


 Anesu D.