[OPLINLIST] In Memory of F. Ward Murrey

[marshams at library.ohio.gov]

[A headshot of F. Ward Murrey standing in front of books on library shelving. He is smiling and wearing glasses, a white shirt, red and black striped tie, and dark suit jacket.]The State Library of Ohio is saddened by the passing of F. Ward Murrey, a former member and President of the State Library of Ohio Board and former Director of the Southeastern Ohio Library Center (now the Serving Every Ohioan (SEO) Service Center-a branch of the State Library of Ohio).

Ward devoted much of his professional life to strengthening library service across southeastern Ohio. Beginning as a part-time employee at SEO in 1961, he took on increasing responsibilities throughout his career and was appointed its director in 1979. He served in that role until his retirement in 1998.

Throughout his career, Ward was a strong advocate for libraries, with a particular commitment to the needs of small and rural libraries. His leadership reflected a deep belief in cooperation, resource sharing, and ensuring that libraries throughout Ohio had access to the services and resources they needed to serve their communities.
His commitment to Ohio libraries continued after his retirement. Mr. Murrey served on the State Library of Ohio Board from January 2008 through January 2012, including service as Vice President and President. During his time on the Board, he brought decades of experience and a strong understanding of the needs of Ohio's library community.

Ward Murrey's legacy also lives on through SEO's F. Ward Murrey Annex in Caldwell, which was named in his honor and serves as a training facility for Ohio libraries and state agencies.

In a 2012 resolution recognizing his service, the State Library Board expressed its gratitude for Ward's dedication, professionalism, and contributions to the development and progress of Ohio's libraries and library programs.

The State Library of Ohio extends its deepest sympathy to F. Ward Murrey's family, friends, former colleagues, and the many members of Ohio's library community who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.

We are grateful for F. Ward Murrey's lifetime of service to Ohio's libraries and his lasting legacy to the library community.

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[State Library of Ohio logo]

Marsha McDevitt-Stredney
Director, Marketing & Communications
State Library of Ohio
35 E. Chestnut St., Floor 5
Columbus, OH 43215-2477
Tel: 614.644.6875
marshams at library.ohio.gov<mailto:marshams at library.ohio.gov>
library.ohio.gov<https://library.ohio.gov/>

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