Murval Leon Highwood (Murv) passed away peacefully of natural causes on April 13, 2020. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ruby Lee (Pridemore) who passed in 2003. Murval leaves behind three daughters and their spouses: Joyce Engstrom (Joe Lucca) of Atlantic Beach, FL; Anita Hendrickson (Carl) of Jasper, IN; and Glenda Stanton (David) of Lafayette, IN; as well as five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
Murval was born in Anderson on July 22, 1920, to Hobart and Ruth (Barnes) Highwood. He was the last surviving son of four children (Francis, Wilma, and Carl) and was a life-long resident of Anderson. He graduated from Anderson Senior High School in 1938 and took an apprenticeship at Anderson Newspapers. Shortly into his time there, he was drafted into the Army and was stationed first in Indianapolis, then in Ft. Meade, Maryland, and finally for 18 months in New Guinea as a medical supply officer, quite an adventure for a local man. As a decorated WWII veteran, he constantly enlightened his family and friends with tales from his service, of which he was very proud.
During his time in Maryland, Murval and a friend made a trip to Washington, DC, and he was introduced to a young lady (Ruby Lee) who was from Tennessee and who was working in the new Pentagon Building. They made a wonderful pair, and when Murval was sent overseas, she waited anxiously for his return. When the war ended, Murval and she rendezvoused in Anderson and were married three weeks later. Their marriage was meant to be, and they were wonderful parents, neighbors and citizens in their beloved town.
Murval completed his apprenticeship and worked his entire career as a stereotyper and printer for the Bulletin, and then the Herald Bulletin, until his retirement in 1983. He made life-long dear friends, including his boss, George Crittenberger. He loved the work and was amazed to watch the changes in the newspaper business over all those years. After retirement, he continued to work as a valued and meticulous paperhanger in several prominent businesses and homes in the area.
Murval maintained two highly important connections over his years in Anderson. He was a long-time member of First Baptist Church for all his adult life, serving in many capacities, including deacon, Sunday School teacher, and contributing on many statewide committees. He rarely missed a Sunday service and was beloved for penning yearly birthday cards to members. His church family was exceedingly important to him, and he will be remembered and highly missed by all who knew him there.
No less important to him were his brothers in the Masons. In the years after Ruby’s passing, Murval became much more active in Masonry, both in Anderson and statewide. He and his very close friend Cliff Henderson traveled the state at least weekly to assist in meetings and enjoy the brotherhood of the various lodges. Anyone who met Murval loved him. Over the years, he was awarded honorary membership in 17 lodges and earned the love and respect of Masons in every corner of the state.
Murval was a dedicated craftsman. He began many years ago making hooked rugs in his spare time, initially from kits, and then rugs of his own design. His favorites to make were Christmas door decorations (Noel, Joy, HoHoHo) which he enjoyed sharing with friends and neighbors. He also made wall-hangings of the Masonic emblem. He gifted those to members of various lodges, and they were treasured. On the less serious side, he made numerous “gag gifts” to bring a smile to folks. If you knew him, you were sure to have received his famous “dime-and-ring” gift, among other funny trinkets.
Most of all, Murval was an exceptional parent, friend, and tireless helper. He had a full and happy life and was loved by all. He will be remembered for his constant warm smile, consistently positive outlook on life, and his deep faith. He will be missed beyond words.
Due to the coronavirus restrictions, a celebration of Murval’s life will be held at a future time. Arrangements are being made by Rozelle-Johnson Funeral Service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Murval’s memory to these Anderson groups: Vermillion Place, First Baptist Church, Mount Moriah Masonic Lodge, and St. Vincent’s Hospice.