Robert Murray Suggitt, 97, of Wall Township, NJ, died peacefully on March 1, 2023, surrounded by his family at the Jersey Shore University Medical Center in Neptune, NJ.

Murray was born in Toronto, Canada, son of George and Mildred Suggitt. He grew up in Toronto and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in physics and chemistry from the University of Toronto in 1947. He emigrated to the United States in 1947. Murray received a Master of Science in Chemistry from the University of Michigan in 1948. In 1952 he completed his PhD in Chemistry, also from the University of Michigan.

Murray moved to Fishkill, NY in 1952, when he joined Texaco as a research chemist in the Beacon Research Laboratories. In 1975, he transferred to Texaco’s patent operations at Texaco Development Corporation where he managed patent procurement and evaluation. He retired in 1994. During his more than 41 years with Texaco, he was awarded more than 100 United States patents that primarily involved catalysis and chemical processing. 

Following retirement, Murray joined a small food pantry at the First Reformed Church in Fishkill, NY, where he was an elder and member of the choir. He became Director of the Food Pantry and served in that role for more than 20 years. Over the years the pantry grew and became a community-based operation supported by local churches, civic, business, school, and social groups. Murray was recognized for his community service with The Fishkill Food Pantry by receiving a community service award from the local Rotary Club in 2013 and the Dutchess County Senior Citizen of the Year award in 2015. 

Always a lifelong learner, upon moving to New Jersey, Murray started programs at his assisted living residence to promote brain health, ran the book club, and served as president of the residents’ association. Murray enjoyed spending time with his family, walking outdoors, studying science and geology, and watching Michigan football games.

Murray was predeceased by his father, mother, and brother, John W. Suggitt. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Sheila, son Bryan Suggitt (Denise Ramsey) of San Francisco, daughter Heather Scaturo (Carl) of Sea Girt, NJ, and daughter Lori Byrne (Kevin) of New Canaan, CT, as well as his four grandchildren Colin, Nicholas, Katharine, and Chloe.

There will be celebrations of Murray’s fully lived life in Fishkill, NY, and Toronto at later dates. In lieu of flowers, donations in Murray’s name may be made to: The Fishkill Food Pantry at 1153 Main St., Fishkill, NY 12524.

To send condolences, please visit http://www.obrienfuneralhome.com