Barrie Murray Passes
With family by his side, longtime harness racing industry participant Barrie Murray of Shawville, Que. peacefully passed away on Oct. 6, 2026, at the age of 85.
Beloved husband of the late Sandra Murray (Horner), loving father to Tim (Kathy), Nancy (Ken Wilson) and Vicki Chamberlain (Ken Polson). Proud grandfather to Justin, Hailey (Joran Graham) and Jared (Rori Richardson), Andrew, Laura and Jake, Jenna (Jordan Bartusek) and Leah (Brett Mundle) and great-grandfather to Camden, Landyn and Reece. Barrie was predeceased by his parents, Clarence and Rhoda (Schwartz) Murray. Brother to the late Laird Murray (late Sheila, Ellen), the late Bryan Murray (Geri), Darleen Murphy (Bert), Bill Murray (Ann), Lorraine Hodgins (Basil), Terry Murray (Linda), the late Laurie Barber (Jerry), Karen Campbell (Terry) and Kim Murray (Mike Malette), and brother-in-law to Gail (late Don Gamble) and a much-loved uncle to many nieces and nephews.
As well, a special mention of Barrie's “Hursty’s family" who provided him with many hours of entertainment, friendship and support, especially over the last few years.
Barrie owned and operated Murray’s Automotive for over 40 years. Alongside his successful business, he maintained a lifelong passion for harness racing. He was one of the 18 owners of the Shawville Driving Club and proudly won six Horse of the Year trophies at Rideau Carleton Raceway. In his youth and throughout his adulthood, Barrie played hockey and remained an avid fan all his life. He loved the Ottawa Senators but was just as happy at the Shawville Arena watching any game that was being played. And when the hockey season was over, he could be found at the ball park taking in a local fastball game. He was a long-standing and dedicated member of the Shawville Lions’ Club and was awarded for his untiring service to the community. Barrie had a great love of playing country music on his guitar and especially enjoyed performing on Friday nights at the Hooley. He was a familiar, welcoming face at every community event, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Friends may call at Hayes Funeral Home, 134 Centre St., Shawville, Que. on Monday, Oct. 12, 2026 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Funeral service will be held in Shawville United Church, 410 Main St., Shawville, Que. on Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026 at 11 a.m.
The family would like to thank the staff at Pontiac Community Hospital for the great care Barrie received at different times over the past year.
Donations can be made in Barrie's name to Shawville and District R.A. or the Shawville District Minor Hockey Association.
Please join Standardbred Canada in offering condolences to the family and friends of Barrie Murray.