Loralee Kay Murchland

Loralee Kay Murchland, 78, passed away in her home on May 22, 2017 after a long battle with cancer. Loralee was born to Philip J. and Vera L. Sexton on April 14,1939 in New Troy, Michigan. Loralee was predeceased by her brother, Ramon Sexton, and is survived by her sister, Janis Sexton of Buchanan, MI. Loralee attended Buchanan High School where she was well liked, played clarinet as a member of the band and met her future husband, Craig Murchland. At the age of 18 years, she married the love of her life on June 8, 1957 and they began their life journey together.
Loralee was a natural caregiver and as Craig’s career transferred the family from Michigan to the South where they resided in Smyrna, GA, Birmingham, AL and finally in Decatur, GA for over 50 years she was dedicated to raising her children and running the home with a loving selflessness that was admired by all. Loralee and Craig were dedicated parents to four children, Paul (Jill) Murchland, Jay (Cindy) Murchland, Carl (Beth) Murchland and JoEllen (Read) Jacob. They were the proud grandparents of a dozen grandchildren; Erica, Heather, Brittany, Joel, Clint, Morgan, Craig, Ryan, Chad, Samantha, Emily and Hunter. They also have 3 great grandchildren, Wesley, Emma and Colbie.
Loralee had a musical ear and was a self taught organist. She enjoyed playing for the family and for solitude. She was an avid golfer and held the title of Club Champion for many years. Loralee was well respected on the course and eager to teach the new golfers how to play which illustrates her competitive but caring nature. While she was proud of her golf accomplishments, she was most proud of her family. She was the glue that held it all together and nothing was more important to her than her children. She created opportunities for endless memories of family gatherings, favorite recipes, laughter, and an unmatched love for others.
Loralee will now be laid to rest with her husband of almost 60 years. Services for Craig and Loralee will be held at A.S.Turner and Sons Funeral Home located at 2773 N. Decatur Road, Decatur, GA on Monday, Feb. 8th. The family will receive guests from 10:30am to 11:30am with a service to follow from 11:30am-12:00pm. Immediate family will then ride in procession to Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA for a military burial where they will be laid to rest together. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in their memory to the Quantico Marine Corp Museum c/o Marine Corp Heritage Foundation at www.marineheritage.org or checks can be mailed to
Marine Heritage Foundation
18900 Jefferson Davis Hwy
Triangle, VA 22172