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Roger M. Murillo 1947-2024

GIRARD — Roger Manuel Murillo, 76, passed away suddenly, Monday, Oct. 21, 2024, at The Cleveland Clinic.

Roger was born in San Francisco, California, to the late Ralph and Cristina Alvarez Murillo.

For close to 50 years, Roger dedicated his life to educating young minds as a teacher in California, Arizona and Ohio, leaving an indelible impact on the lives of countless students. His commitment to his students extended beyond the classroom, as he also served as the principal at Hilltop Christian School in Vallejo, California, for a decade.

Throughout his life, Roger exemplified a caring personality. He loved Jesus and served as a Sunday school teacher, sang beautifully in the choir, worked behind the scenes in many theatrical productions and was a hard worker. Beyond his professional endeavors, he was passionate about cooking, restoring old cars, being hands-on with various remodeling projects, singing, reading, helping anyone in need, gardening, running and exercising; his love for the outdoors showcased his active lifestyle and connection to nature.

He also had a great sense of humor. He truly enjoyed taking care of his two dogs, Dumpling and Tammy Sue.

Roger’s love for life was only surpassed by his love and devotion to his family. He married his beloved wife, Diana Brown Murillo, on July 3, 1995, and they had 29 years of wonderful memories together. He is further survived by his children, Michelle (Brent) Spore, Adam (Adrienne) Murillo, Timothy Friend and Bryant Friend; grandchildren, Cadence Spore, and Abednego and Emmanuel Friend; siblings, Mario (Mechelle) Murillo, Ralph Murillo, Julian Murillo, Indiana Murillo, Chayito (Adam) Bell and Lou (Michelle) Murillo. He also cherished his extended family, including brothers-in-law, Chuck (Lynette) Brown, Jeff (Donna) Brown and Paul (Melanie) Brown; as well as his uncle, Peter, and aunt, Lori Dyke. He was also a loving uncle to several nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory in their hearts.

Along with his parents, Roger was preceded in death by his sister, Linda Gomez.

Calling hours will begin 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, at Blackstone Funeral Home, Girard, with a celebration of life memorial service at 2 p.m.

A reception will follow the service at Liberty Assembly of God Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that any memorial contributions be made to the family for use as a donation in Roger’s name to a charity of their choice.

Roger Murillo will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visit www.blackstonefuneralhome.com to view this obituary and to send any expressions of sympathy to the family.

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