David Murray Price was born in Lexington, S.C., on Feb. 24, 1921, during the second day of a snow storm which produced “snowflakes the size of silver dollars” as reported in the Lexington Dispatch newspaper. He passed into the loving arms of his Lord on Dec. 18, 2021, having had a life filled with opportunities to follow paths laid by the Lord for him. With a willing heart he searched for ways to be of service to others.

Murray was the first of six children born to Dora (Amick) Price and Dewey D. Price. Dewey (a barber) and Dora (a homemaker) raised their children during the Great Depression, living first in Lexington, S.C., and then the Red Bank Community in Lexington County. At the age of 5, Murray was selected to draw names for potential jurors. Young children were used to draw names as they weren’t able to read. He was paid $1 a day. Good money and opportunity to learn a little about civic duty.

In November 1931, his father took him to see Amelia Earhart as she flew into Columbia to promote the growth of airlines and aviation. He was one of approximately 15,000-20,000 people in attendance. Murray’s eyes were opened to aviation which left a lasting impression.

As the oldest son, Murray took to heart his need to help provide for his family. A straight-A student in primary school he also worked as a budding salesman. He sold the Grit newspaper, having 25 regular customers along with sales on the street. This money went to his family. He also sold Rosebud and Cloverine salves for 25 cents each. He earned premiums from these sales that he used to get a football and baseball glove. The family moved to Red Bank in 1934. He worked on Saturdays in his father’s barbershop charging 5 cents a shoe shine and bringing in 50-60 cents a day.

Having learned to drive at age 8, as there were no requirements for a driver’s license, he was ready at 16 when hired part time to make deliveries for the Red Bank Mill store in a 1936 Ford pickup truck. During his senior year of high school Murray took jobs at the Mill and the Mill store. He rushed from school to work leaving no time for study and little time for sleep. His grades fell drastically.

A teacher told him it was time he decided if he was going to be a student or a mill worker. He got up, left the room upset and angry, but with the knowl edge the income was necessary to provide for his family. Shortly after leaving school the Red Bank Mill began laying off workers. Murray found work as a laborer with the WPA paving what is now Highway 378 in Lexington.

His pickup driving skills allowed him to secure a driving job. He learned quickly that there was a vast difference between driving a pickup and a dump truck. He mastered the skills needed and spent the summer working for the WPA. He returned to mill work in the fall of 1940 as employees were rehired.

Murray knew that mill work held no real future. He approached the superintendent of schools to be reinstated for his last semester of high school. In 1940, he received his high school diploma. Throughout his life he made the best of every opportunity given him. He worked conscientiously to give his finest at all times.

In 1942, while employed by the U.S. Postal Service, Murray often delivered mail to the Army Base in Columbia. In August of that year he volunteered for the Army Air Corps. He tested with a group of men for acceptance. Of the men tested that day, only Murray and one other individual scored well enough on the exam to be accepted into the Pilot Program.

Following an intensive training program he was assigned as an Army Air Corps B-24 Bomber pilot in the Pacific. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with seven Oak Leaf Clusters, and two Battle Stars.

Returning home following the war he married his sweetheart and forever dance partner, Frances Addy. Married for 69 years until her passing in 2015, they raised four children and enjoyed traveling to the mountains.

A career working in the Wholesale Food Distribution industry saw Murray begin as a salesman retiring 39 years later as Executive Vice President/CEO of PYA/Monarch (now US Foods) with 23 branches across the US.

Murray’s life was dedicated to faith and family. He had a servant’s heart impacting people in ways he never imagined and many times never knew. He was asked later in life to speak to students, community groups, military groups, retirement/nursing homes and churches about WWII. He shared his personal story, but also stories of others and the tremendous sacrifices of the young men and women who served their nation. He spoke of the citizens at home and their efforts on the home front. He told these stories of times long gone in hopes of helping to preserve the message of faith, optimism and perseverance while honoring all who served.

There were always many avenues for his talents and gifts. His community service included YMCA of the Midlands, Lexington County Arts Association, Lexington County Health Education Foundation, Crime Stoppers, Midlands Technical College, Lexington Medical Center Foundation, Advisory Board to First National, S.C. National and Wachovia Banks, Rotary Club of Columbia, and Lexington Chamber of Commerce.

He was a devoted and faithful member of St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, Lutheran Men, Committee of 100, Worship Usher coordinator, and Property Committee, working until age 94 mowing and weed-eating the church cemetery.

Humbled and blessed Murray was honored by the S.C. Chamber of Commerce with the 2015 Sgt. William Jasper Freedom Award, Blue Star Mother’s 2016 Military Veteran’s Award, Newberry College 2016 Honorary Degree — Doctor of Humane Letters. Tau Kappa Epsilon (TKE) fraternity of Newberry College inducted Murray as a fraternity brother at age 89 in recognition of his support and service.

Surviving family are: children, David B. Price (Ann), Vickie P. Ettenger, Deborah P. Moye (Tom) and Gerald M. Price; seven grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; sister, Azalie P. Sharpe; brother, Billy B. Price (Sandra); brother-in-law, John D. Raines; cousin, Melba Shealy; nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; brother, Wesley L. Price (Emma); sisters, Irma P. Raines, Helen P. Granzow; brothers-in-law, Albert Granzow and Samuel Sharpe.

Visitation will be Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2021, from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Caughman-Harman Funeral Home, Lexington Chapel. A funeral service will be held at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church in Lexington on Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2021, at 2p.m. Graveside service to be held immediately afterwards. The family will be returning to the Social Hall to greet and share light snacks with those attending. Memorials may be given to St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, 119 North Church St., Lexington, SC 29072 or to a charity of your choice.

The family wishes to thank all who lifted Murray in prayer. He was well aware of your love and support. A very special thank you to the staff at Lexington Community Hospice House (formerly Agape). The tender care shown to our father knew no bounds. Your personal attention and love was beautiful and heartwarming. Know that you will remain in our hearts forever.

“My only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me.” — Acts 20:24