Dawson Richard Murchison, III.

A man of few words but profound thought, Dawson Richard Murchison Ill, affectionately known as Dick, lived his life with quiet dignity, an understated sense of humor, and a love for the people and places that shaped him.

Dick was born in Kingsville, TX on July 20, 1942, to Dawson R. "Dick" Jr. and Pansy Mills Murchison. His early years were spent in Premont, where he attended grade school, and later in Corsicana, where he graduated from high school in 1960.

Dick pursued higher education at Texas A&M in College Station and Texas A&I in Kingsville, building a foundation for a career that would take him from the heart of the Texas oil fields to a decades-long role in electrical engineering. But before settling into his profession, life took him overseas. Drafted into the United States Army in April 1964, Dick served as a Fixed Radio Station Operator in France. He embraced this chapter with quiet resilience and returned home in 1966, honorably discharged and ready to take on the next phase of life.

Dick spent 18 years as an electrician at Celanese in Bishop, TX, where he combined technical skill with his signature precision and care. Later, he contributed to several engineering firms, ultimately retiring in March 2016 from Maverick Engineering. His career was marked by steady dedication, much like the man himself.

Outside of work, Dick's true joys were found in the outdoors, hunting and fishing alongside his father and brother. These moments, filled with quiet camaraderie and a shared love of nature, were the memories he cherished most deeply. He also found immense happiness in his family, supporting their endeavors with his characteristic thoughtfulness and wry humor.

Dick's life was defined by the relationships he cultivated. He shared 35 years of love and partnership with his wife, Lena Marietta (Mary) Murchison. Together, they built a life filled with laughter, love, and a devotion to their blended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Dawson R. Jr. and Pansy Mills Murchison; his brother, Travis L. Murchison; and his grandparents, Travis C. and Florence Kemper Mills, and Dawson R. Sr. and Mattie B. Wright Murchison.

Dick is survived by his beloved wife, Lena Marietta (Mary) Murchison, and a family that was the pride of his life. His sister, Susan (David) Ivy of Kingsville. His children include daughters Dedra Kay Murchison of Houston and Georgie Lee Treviño of Alice, TX; son Dawson R. Murchison IV of Poulsbo, WA; and stepchildren Randa (Joe Barber of Elmhurst, IL, Lynn (Dennis) Yaklin of Kingsville, and Timothy Wright of Kingsville. Dick was also grandfather to nine grandchildren: Hannah Murchison of Corpus Christi; Colton (Abbie) Cuny of Buford, GA; Jacob (Melyn) Yaklin of New Braunfels, TX; Madison Yaklin of Knoxville, TN; Luke Barber and Piper Barber of Elmhurst, IL; Blake Wright of Los Angeles, CA; and Kayden Wright and McKenna Wright of Kingsville. His joy extended even further to his great-grandchild, Emma Claire Cuny of Buford, GA.

In his final months, Dick was blessed with the compassionate care of Janie Guajardo of Kingsville, TX. More than just a caregiver, Janie became a trusted companion and a true part of the family. She spent countless hours by his side, talking, joking, and ensuring his comfort with tireless dedication. Janie's advocacy for Dick's well-being and her unwavering presence brought joy and peace to his days. Their bond was one of deep mutual respect and affection, and she will forever hold a cherished place in the hearts of his family, who are profoundly grateful for her love and care.

Though Dick's "dash" between 1942 and 2025 may appear simple on paper, it was rich with quiet triumphs, steadfast love, and a humor that caught you by surprise. His legacy is one of a man who spoke sparingly but lived fully, whose thoughtful presence enriched every life he touched.

He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of his family and friends, and in the laughter of his grandchildren who carry forward his unique spark.

The family will receive condolences beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary. A chapel service will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m., followed by military honors.