Murray S. Eckell

It is with profound respect and heartfelt admiration that we commemorate the life of Murray S. Eckell, a man whose enduring legacy is imprinted upon the legal fabric of Pennsylvania and the hearts of all who had the honor to know him. Born on June 4, 1934, in Chester, PA, Mr. Eckell passed from this world on March 19, 2026, in Media, PA, leaving behind a lifetime of remarkable achievements, boundless dedication, and cherished memories.

Murray’s journey was one characterized by tenacity, intellect, and an unwavering commitment to justice. A proud 1952 graduate of Chester High School, he broke new ground as the first in his family to attend college, graduating from Dickinson College in 1956 and subsequently earning his law degree from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania Law School in 1959. His allegiance to these venerable institutions endured throughout his life, remaining a devoted alumnus and benefactor.

His professional saga began with three years of service at the law firm of Snyder and Snyder before he ventured into private practice. The genesis of his enduring legacy was the formation of Eckell & Sparks in the spring of 1964, alongside Don Sparks—an enterprise that would blossom into the respected firm known today as Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. Over a legal career that stretched beyond six decades, Murray’s influence was felt across numerous arenas: from a yearlong appointment on the bench of the Court of Common Pleas of Delaware County to decades of leadership in bar associations at both local and national levels, including a prestigious role on the Board of Governors of the Pennsylvania Bar Association and dedicated service on the Disciplinary Board of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.

Murray was heralded by his peers and adored by his family as not only the smartest person many ever knew but also as a man of humble origins who graciously paid forward the opportunities bestowed upon him. Beyond his professional life, he nurtured a love for creating intricate models of ships and other transportation modes—one of which, a model ship, entertains the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas Judges Lounge with its exquisite craftsmanship. He also maintained his passion for golf well into his eighties, often playing with his son, Steven.

Among his proudest accomplishments were his children and grandchildren—his living legacy. Murray took immense pride in personally submitting his daughter, Sue Ann Eckell, and grandson Jeremy Toll for admission to the Pennsylvania Bar upon their successful passage of the Bar Exam, a testament to his enduring influence within the legal profession and his family alike. His talent as a gifted musician and performer was a cherished gift he lovingly passed down to his grandchildren.

Murray is lovingly survived by his wife Elayne V. Eckell; his daughter, Sue Ann Eckell and her husband David Toll; their children, Jeremy, Daniel, Abby, and Becky Toll; his sons, Richard Eckell and Steven Eckell, the latter with his wife Jennifer and their son Thomas and his wife Jennifer; and his daughter Lynn Eckell, as well and Elayne's children Bruce Elko, Gary and Sue Elko and their sons Tyler and Evan, along with Elayne's 4 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his parents, Nathaniel C. and Shirley Eckell.

A Funeral Service celebrating the distinguished life of Murray S. Eckell will be held on March 25, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Congregation Ohev Shalom, 2 Chester Rd, Nether Providence Township, PA 19086. Following will be a Visitation from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the same location, offering friends, family, and colleagues the opportunity to pay their respects and honor a man whose life was a beacon of intelligence, integrity, and generosity. The Family will also receive visitors on March 26, 2026, at Riddle Village 1048 W Baltimore Pike, Media, PA 19063 beginning at 7:00 PM in the Aster Room.

In mourning the loss yet celebrating the extraordinary life of Murray S. Eckell, we honor a gentleman of exceptional mind, heart, and spirit, whose profound contributions to his profession, community, and family will resonate for generations to come.

Contributions may be made in memory to the Multiple Sclerosis Society - events.nationalmssociety.org - and Congregation Ohev Shalom. - Congregation Ohev Shalom -