Anyone who met Guy Murray knew he cared about Vidalia and Concordia Parish.

Murray served as the Concordia Parish Homeland Security director and had been involved in the Concordia Parish Chamber of Commerce.

Murray was even voted “Male Concordian of the Year” in 2014.

Anyone who knew Murray also knew he was a devoted family man who loved his wife and three children and perhaps that love of family was a driving force behind his desire to make his community the best it could be.

Murray’s love of the community also was evident in almost everything he did, including in his role as Homeland Security director where he helped Vidalia and Concordia Parish through floods and storms with preparation and response operations.

Murray said recently in announcing his run for the Louisiana House District 21 seat in the Legislature that he had always aspired to be a public servant like his grandfather, former Vidalia Mayor Sidney A. Murray.

Even though Murray’s life was cut short Monday at the age of 40, we believe Murray earned the distinction of being a great public servant. He was responsive to the community’s needs and was a friend to virtually everyone he met.

It is a shame he did not live to see the election through. He has been called to a higher service.

The Miss-Lou, however, lost a beloved and faithful servant.

Godspeed, Guy Murray. Thank you for your service.