Mary G. Murdock

Mary (Gibson) Murdock, 98, of Kansas City, MO, passed away on April 16, 2026. Mary was a dedicated mother, grandmother, wife, and proud attorney. Mary was a smart, kind, and courageous woman who will be missed by all who knew her.

Mary was born in Duluth, Minnesota, in 1927 to Marion Gibson and O.H. Gibson. Mary grew up and graduated from High School in Eveleth, Minnesota. Mary had two siblings, Richard Gibson and Harry Gibson. After the retirement of O.H. Gibson, the family settled in Springfield, Missouri.

Mary was dedicated to education and hard work throughout her life. Mary graduated from Northwestern University with a Bachelor’s Degree in English in 1949. She joined Alpha Chi Omega while at Northwestern University. Mary worked as an English & Speech teacher for one year in St. Louis, MO, prior to resuming her education by attending the University of Missouri - Columbia Law School. Mary graduated from MU Law School in 1953, and she was licensed to practice law the same year. She married Fred A. Murdock in 1953, and they moved to Kansas City to begin their life together.

Mary was a pioneer in her field; she was the only woman in her Law School Class at the University of Missouri - Columbia. While at Law School, she was elected to the Order of the Coif, the Missouri Law Review, and was the winner of the Case Club competition. Mary graduated at the top of her class. Immediately after graduation, she practiced general law with the Kansas City firm of Warrick, Brewer, Lamkin, and Myers. Mary worked as a licensed attorney from 1953 until 1990, when she retired from the Jackson County Counselor’s office. Mary was proud of her career accomplishments and was proud to have helped pave the way for more women to become accomplished attorneys and professionals like her. She was the recipient of the Women’s Centennial Honors Award from the University of Missouri in 1968.

Mary was a proud member of the Missouri PEO and dedicated over 75 years to this organization. Mary loved the friendship, service, and female empowerment that PEO provides to women in Missouri. Mary was also a devout member of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church of Kansas City for over 50 years.

Mary was an avid reader, loved opera music, and traveling. Mary was a Missouri Sports enthusiast; she enjoyed watching the Chiefs, the Royals, and any Missouri Tigers game.

Mary was a beloved mother, grandmother, and wife. She will be deeply missed by her family and friends. Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, Fred A. Murdock Sr., and her brothers, Richard Gibson and Harry Gibson.

Mary is survived by her children, Fred A. Murdock Jr. (Gina Murdock) & Marilyn Urschel (Scott Urschel), and her 5 grandchildren, Rob & Dana Murdock and Benjamin, Samuel & Molly Urschel.

Visitation will be held at Mt. Moriah, Newcomer & Freeman Funeral Home on Monday, April 27, 2026, at 11 AM. A service will take place at 12 PM, followed by burial in Mount Moriah Cemetery at 1 PM. A reception will be held at the funeral home immediately after the burial. Donations to PEO, Chapter F, would be greatly appreciated.