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JACKSON, Tenn. — April 17, 2015 — On a cool day in March, a small group of close-knit family members gathered on 51����’s campus to remember the life of Union alumnus Daniel Thomas “Tom” Murchison and to celebrate the establishment of an endowed scholarship fund in his memory.

For the family, it is a fitting way to honor him — a faithful and loved husband, father, grandfather and brother. The initial $50,000 gift given by Tom’s sister and fellow Union alumna, Lynne Murchison, will benefit students studying the liberal arts.

“I always knew my brother was a good man, but it was not until after his death that I learned he was a great man,” Lynne Murchison said. “Tom had a servant’s heart, and I hope that this scholarship will help produce more Toms for the world.”

Union President Samuel W. “Dub” Oliver said the university received the gift with joy for the impact it would have for many years.

“As students receive an excellent, Christ-centered education through this endowed scholarship in his memory, they will know and remember the name and legacy of Tom Murchison,” Oliver said.

Tom Murchison graduated from Union in 1959. He was well-known on campus for his brilliant sense of humor and extensive campus involvement. Murchison went on to graduate from Tulane University Law School and began his 49-year law career in Natchitoches, Louisiana, where he and his wife settled permanently.

Murchison, who described himself as “terminally cantankerous,” frequently reminded others of his priorities —“faith, family and friends.” His family remembers him as a man of character and integrity, one who quietly served others.

Following a battle with cancer, Murchison died in 2012 at the age of 75. But, for his family and friends, the impact of his life continues to shape them.

In February of 2014, the city of Natchitoches dedicated the city court building posthumously in Murchison’s honor, “for his forty years as City Attorney and public servant.”

Tom, who met his wife, Vicki, at Union, was the first member of his family to graduate from Union. He was followed by his two younger sisters, a niece and a nephew. His granddaughter is a current student.

“This is a family that highly values the mission of Union,” Oliver said. “It is encouraging to see the influence one generation of Unionites has had on the world and to anticipate the influence of future generations.”