David Lee Wayne Murray-Pickering

Our hearts are shattered by the loss of David Lee Wayne Murray-Pickering who passed away unexpectedly on Monday, October 06, 2025, at the young age of 29. While we are grieving his loss, we choose to remember him not by how he died, but by how he lived. David lived with an unconditional heart, adventurous soul, and his charismatic energy that impacted everyone around him. David had a way of lighting up the room; from the way he got excited when telling stories to his contagious laugh when making out of pocket jokes; his presence was a force.

David was born on December 05, 1995, at Grays Harbor Community Hospital in Aberdeen, Washington to Amy Murray and Todd Pickering. From an early age he was always charming, sarcastic, and full of energy. David played sports and enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and spending time with those he considered friends and family.

David was extremely intelligent and excelled in everything he put his mind to. His work ethic was unmatched, and he found great purpose in working hard. He sought thrill, took risks, and lived day by day on his own terms, always stepping to the beat of his own drum. It is no surprise that one of David's biggest passions was being out at sea. He felt great solitude being on the ocean; free from the noise and chaos of this loud world, it was his true oasis. His heart was with The Lisa Marie, as well as exploring and living life on the Alaskan waters.

Driven and skilled, David later joined the union and found purpose and pride in his work to get the job done and was always someone that would be the first to lend a helping hand. While he often caused ruckus, his generosity, acts of kindness, and love for the relationships he maintained throughout his life were what balanced him and brought him the most joy. He valued trust and loyalty above all else. A free spirit who spoke his truth unapologetically, David pushed others to be their best selves and held onto hope even while struggling himself. He wore his heart and passion for what he loved on his sleeve.

For years, he battled the disease of addiction, a fight that countless families understand all too well. Despite the struggle, he never stopped seeking a better life. Addiction did not define David, and it will not be his legacy.

David is survived by his mother, Amy Murray, of Olympia, Washington; his fathers, Todd Pickering, of Aberdeen, Washington and Jeremy Watkins, of Johns River, Washington; sibling, Calista Murray, of Olympia, Washington; sisters, Shyla Peterson, of Elma, Washington; Kellie Strickland; Emily Reed; Maggie Watkins; and Jillian Watkins, of Johns River, Washington as well as grandfather, Larry Pickering, of Aberdeen, Washington; grandmother, Peggy Jimenez, of Johns River, Washington; his beloved niece Trinity Garrison-Walsh of Missoula, Montana; nephew Izak Garrison, of Elma, Washington; and his aunts and uncles, cousins as well as many more extended family and friends who had the privilege of knowing him. David was preceded in death by his grandfather, David Lee Murray of Hoquiam, Washington and grandmother, Judy Pickering of Aberdeen, Washington.

We will carry his spirit with us always—in the quiet moments, the shared memories, and the continued fight for others still struggling. In David’s honor our family will be starting a fund called "David's Little Checkbook,.for the Silenced Voices of Grays Harbor" for those who lost their battle to the gut-wrenching disease of addiction and for their families to continue spreading awareness and supporting one another. If you wish to contribute to our cause providing support for cremation/burial /celebrations of life expenses for victims of Overdose, send your contribution to Amy Murray @ Olympia Federal Savings, 421 Capitol Way South, Olympia, WA 98501 If you or a loved one is battling addiction, please know that help is available contact Narcotics Anonymous by calling (360) 589-8620.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Cosmopolis Lions Club, 601 2nd St. Cosmopolis, WA 98537 on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Please bring your best stories and positive vibes as we remember David Lee Wayne Murray-Pickering and allow him to seek his next adventure.