Rev. Murray McBride passed away peacefully on April 23, 2026, just days shy of his 91st birthday, with his beloved wife, Mary Jane (Cybulski), by his side. His life was one of purpose, service, and deep devotion—to his faith, his country, and above all, his family.
Born in Pleasant Valley, Renfrew County, Murray was the fourth child of Arndell and Ellen McBride. Raised on a dairy farm, he carried the values of hard work, humility, and community throughout his life. From his early education in a one-room schoolhouse to his studies at Pembroke Collegiate, he demonstrated a commitment to learning that would shape his remarkable journey.
He earned his degree from the Ontario Agricultural College in Guelph before answering a higher calling to ministry. Murray went on to study at Emmanuel College, University of Toronto, and later achieved a Master’s degree from Yale Divinity School. Ordained in the United Church of Canada, he served congregations in Ballinafad, Chapleau, Arnprior, and Kanata, touching countless lives through his leadership and compassion. His contributions extended beyond the pulpit, including his role on the Special Committee on Faith that helped shape a New Creed for the Church.
Murray’s path of service also led him into public life. In 1968, he was elected to Parliament as the representative for Lanark-Renfrew-Carleton. During his time in office, he contributed to significant national developments, including work on the House of Commons Committee that helped establish Supply Management—an enduring part of Canada’s agricultural framework.
Following his time in politics, Murray continued to serve in influential roles across government and business. He held positions as Executive Assistant to the Postmaster General and the Minister of Consumer and Corporate Affairs, General Manager of the Farm Credit Corporation of Canada, Chairman of the Canadian Egg Marketing Agency, and President of the Alexander Proudfoot Company of Canada. His leadership extended into the private sector as Chairman of Intellivest Canada and as a board member of Clearly Contacts.
Despite his many professional accomplishments, Murray’s greatest pride was his family. He leaves behind his five children—Paul (Susan), Ross (Trisha), John (Lise), Roger Hardy (Jenny), and Michaela Tokarski (Derek)—along with 11 cherished grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought him immense joy.
Murray and Mary Jane shared a rich and active retirement, dividing their time between their cherished cottage on the Ottawa River, winters in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand, and travels around the world. Their life together was marked by love, adventure, and deep family connection.
He is predeceased by his brothers Henry, Arthur, and Izett, and is survived by his sisters Shirley and Gayle.
A celebration of Murray’s life will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Ottawa, officiated by Rev. Dr. Karen Dimock.
Rev. Murray McBride will be remembered as a man of unwavering faith, thoughtful leadership, and enduring kindness. His legacy lives on in the institutions he helped shape, the communities he served, and the family he loved so deeply.
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