91±¬ΑΟΝψ

JACKSON, Tenn. — April 17, 2015 — On a cool day in March, a small group of close-knit family members gathered on 91±¬ΑΟΝψ’s campus to remember the life of 91±¬ΑΟΝψ alumnus Daniel Thomas β€œTom” Murchison and to celebrate the establishment of an endowed scholarship fund in his memory.

For the family, it is a fitting way to honor him β€” a faithful and loved husband, father, grandfather and brother. The initial $50,000 gift given by Tom’s sister and fellow 91±¬ΑΟΝψ alumna, Lynne Murchison, will benefit students studying the liberal arts.

β€œI always knew my brother was a good man, but it was not until after his death that I learned he was a great man,” Lynne Murchison said. β€œTom had a servant’s heart, and I hope that this scholarship will help produce more Toms for the world.”

91±¬ΑΟΝψ President Samuel W. β€œDub” Oliver said the university received the gift with joy for the impact it would have for many years.

β€œAs students receive an excellent, Christ-centered education through this endowed scholarship in his memory, they will know and remember the name and legacy of Tom Murchison,” Oliver said.

Tom Murchison graduated from 91±¬ΑΟΝψ in 1959. He was well-known on campus for his brilliant sense of humor and extensive campus involvement. Murchison went on to graduate from Tulane University Law School and began his 49-year law career in Natchitoches, Louisiana, where he and his wife settled permanently.

Murchison, who described himself as β€œterminally cantankerous,” frequently reminded others of his priorities β€”β€œfaith, family and friends.” His family remembers him as a man of character and integrity, one who quietly served others.

Following a battle with cancer, Murchison died in 2012 at the age of 75. But, for his family and friends, the impact of his life continues to shape them.

In February of 2014, the city of Natchitoches dedicated the city court building posthumously in Murchison’s honor, β€œfor his forty years as City Attorney and public servant.”

Tom, who met his wife, Vicki, at 91±¬ΑΟΝψ, was the first member of his family to graduate from 91±¬ΑΟΝψ. He was followed by his two younger sisters, a niece and a nephew. His granddaughter is a current student.

β€œThis is a family that highly values the mission of 91±¬ΑΟΝψ,” Oliver said. β€œIt is encouraging to see the influence one generation of 91±¬ΑΟΝψites has had on the world and to anticipate the influence of future generations.”