Roddy John Murray
Added at 12:24 on 05 March 2024
Members of past Sleat Community Councils and the wider community have been shocked and saddened at the untimely passing of Roddy Murray. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends at this sad time.
Roddy was a giant of man, an exemplar of his generation and throughout his life he selflessly served his communities, his colleagues, friends and his family. Roddy was loved and respected by all who knew and worked with him from his many years in his beloved Isle of Lewis and to Skye where he made his home. There will be tributes paid for all the good things that he did for other people but many of those will certainly contain the word 'community', something that meant so much to him all of his life. His commitment and support for others was simply outstanding and he will be missed by so many people and the family that loved him so much.
Back in 2017 Roddy was nominated by his community council colleagues for the seventh Eilean a’ Cheò Civic Awards in the 'community' category. He was surprised that he should be considered for such an award, given for service to the community here in Skye. His pride in receiving this accolade was, as expected modest and measured, but we all know how happy he was at the recognition he so much deserved. He had a twinkle in his eyes that special day in Portree.
Highland Council's citation for Roddy's award is reproduced below.
The Community Award went to Roddy Murray from Tarskavaig who has been in public office nearly all his working life. His early years were spent in the Western Isles where he undertook many roles in Comhairle nan Eilean Siar including Trading Standards, as a Councillor, and as Vice-Convener. After moving back to Skye, he has been tireless in a range of roles including those in Sleat Community Trust and the Sleat Community Council of which he is currently chair.
Roddy has never been afraid to champion issues that affect the community that he has given so much time and energy to. One of the ‘highlights’ of his recent years has been the chairmanship of the Sleat Transport Forum, a sub-group of the Community Council that was established to champion public transport from, to and within the Sleat peninsula.
Aside from his roles in the community trust and community council he continues to contribute in his own home village of Tarskavaig where he is clerk of the common grazings and on the Communities Hall management committee.
His fellow Community Councillors who nominated him said: “His lifelong service to communities can only be described as exemplary, and he is the perfect example of dedication, passion and commitment.”
We'll miss you Roddy. You meant so much to so many. Rest in Peace.
Rob Ware, former secretary, Sleat Community Council.
