Londalea (Knigga) Murray, a beloved mother, grandmother, and educator, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2025, at Ripley Crossing, surrounded by her loving family. She was 91 years old.
Born on May 26, 1933, in Milan, Indiana, Londalea was the cherished daughter of Clamanz and Lula (Fischvogt) Knigga. Growing up on the family farm in Cass Township near Downey’s Corner, she developed a deep appreciation for nature and community. Londalea’s educational journey began in one-room schools, where her passion for learning blossomed. She later attended Cass-Union School and graduated from Rising Sun High School in 1951. Her commitment to education led her to Ball State Teacher’s College, where she earned her degree in 1955.
For 32 years, Londalea dedicated her life to teaching first grade at various schools, only taking time off to raise her own children. These included Greendale Elementary, Aurora Elementary, and Dillsboro Elementary, until her retirement in 2001. Her impact on the lives of countless children was profound, and she took great joy in reconnecting with former students throughout her life.
On November 23, 1956, Londalea married Robert L. Murray, the love of her life, who preceded her in death on December 9, 1983. Together, they built a loving home filled with laughter and learning. Londalea was an active member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Bear Branch, where she taught Sunday School for many years, was a member of the Fellowship Group, Evening Circle Group, and the Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church (WELCA). Her hands were often busy with the St. Peter Quilting Group, creating life-warming quilts for Lutheran World Relief.
A lifetime member of the Happy Homemakers Ohio County Extension Group and the Retired Teachers Association of Dearborn County, Londalea was known for her warmth and generosity. She enjoyed reading, cooking, gardening, and canning, and after retirement, she embraced the joy of travel through bus tours across the country. Her love for children extended beyond the classroom, as she dedicated her time to reading at local libraries and schools, fostering a love of literature in the next generation.
Londalea is survived by her four children: Brian Murray, Brent (Jenny) Murray, Bruce (Gina) Murray, of Dillsboro, and Barbara (Rick) Power, of Anderson, IN. She was a proud grandmother to six grandchildren and a loving great-grandmother to four great-grandchildren. Londalea’s legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to education will forever be cherished by her family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Clamanz and Lula Knigga, and her husband, Robert Murray.
Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Londalea on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at St. Peter Lutheran Church, located at 3958 Milton Bear Branch Rd, Dillsboro, IN 47018. Services will follow at 12:00 PM, officiated by Pastor Mona Safley. Burial will take place at Marker-Althoff Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in honor of Londalea to St. Peter Lutheran Church.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to all who have offered their love and support during this time. Londalea’s spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Filter-DeVries-Moore Funeral Home: PO Box 146, Dillsboro, IN 47018; (812) 432-5480. For condolences and to share memories of Londalea, please visit our website at www.filterdevriesmoore.com.