OUR STORY
Rooted in Compassion.
Guided by Service.
Grace Murray Funeral Home was founded on a simple
belief: every family deserves compassionate care and every
life deserves to be remembered with dignity.
For years, we've proudly served families throughout the
Washington Metropolitan Area, helping them navigate loss
with understanding, professionalism, and heartfelt support.
We know that no two families are alike, which is why we
take the time to listen, understand your wishes, and create
services that truly reflect the life being celebrated.
Whether you're planning a traditional funeral, a cremation,
or looking ahead with pre-planning, our commitment remains the same, to provide comfort, clarity, and care when you need it most.
Remembering Our Legacy
OUR FOREMOTHER, AREATHER T. MURRAY
Mrs. Murray was born the fourth child of four siblings in Washington, D.C. She was educated in Washington, D.C public schools, serving as the President of the Future Business Leaders of America, and received her associates degree from the University of the District of Columbia.
Areather was a licensed insurance broker, certified pre- planning consultant and successful entrepreneur. She spent her lifetime “piddling” and encouraging everyone around her to live a life of genuine love, peace and compassion. She also employed dozens of people in her various companies such as Magnolia Coach and Murray Funeral Home. She taught basic customer service skills, sales and shared her wisdom on how to be successful by learning different trade skills.
Areather is the first generation of the Murray Family to serve in the funeral service industry. Not only did she raise, but she also trained her youngest daughter, Grace, to serve the community through funeral service. After retirement, she assisted Grace with building her own funeral home, Grace Murray Funeral Home and trained the staff on the basics of funeral service. Areather was a woman filled with compassion and southern hospitality who undoubtedly served the Washington, Metropolitan and Prince George’s community until her transition into heaven on February 28, 2021. Grace Murray Funeral home and everyone we serve will truly miss Areather’s calming spirit.
Caring Professionals You Can Count On.
Behind every meaningful service is a dedicated team committed to supporting families with compassion and respect.
Our experienced staff is here to answer questions, coordinate every detail, and help create a service that reflects your loved one's life and legacy.
Founder & CEO
Grace Murray
Grace, raised in Bowie, Maryland, is the second generation of her family to serve in the funeral service industry. Growing up around her family’s funeral home, she discovered early that funeral service was more than a career—it was her ministry and calling to care for others.
Her commitment to serving the community allows her to support grieving families with genuine compassion, personal attention, and a touch of Southern hospitality. Grace is currently pursuing her Associate’s degree in Mortuary Science at the American Academy McAllister Institute of Mortuary Science as she continues her family’s legacy of meaningful service.
Licensed Funeral Director
Duane Calloway
Mr. Calloway, a native of Mobile, Alabama, earned his Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Chemistry from Alabama State University and began his career as a public school teacher. He later earned a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Bowie State University and founded a transportation company serving funeral homes and businesses throughout the Washington Metropolitan Area.
He went on to earn an Associate’s degree in Mortuary Science from the University of the District of Columbia, where he currently serves as a professor in the Mortuary Science Department. Mr. Calloway is a licensed funeral professional in Washington, D.C., Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware.
