November 7, 1938 – July 28, 2026
Murrill passed away peacefully at his home on July 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of his wife, Elaine, and his family. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, generosity, and countless happy memories.
Murrill Wayne Conley was born on November 7th, 1938, in Bakersfield, California. He grew up in San Juan Bautista, California. He learned to play the saxophone in grammar school. He later played in the San Benito High School band and met the love of his life, Elaine (Spina) Conley. Their high school romance blossomed into a long and loving marriage that spanned 70 years.
Murrill served in the Army Reserve and was stationed at Fort Ord. He owned the Conley Texaco service station on 3rd & San Benito in Hollister. He successfully owned Granny’s Laundry, the 4th Street Car Wash, and Hillcrest Car Wash with the help of Elaine, who managed the bookkeeping. Outside of his career, Murrill served as President of the Northern California Carwash Association for three terms, was a San Benito County Planning Commissioner for 16 years, and a member of the Hollister Elk’s Lodge for over 60 years. During this time, Murrill and Elaine raised their three children, Mike, Maryann, and Rick. While he was proud of his many accomplishments, nothing brought him greater happiness than being a husband, father, and grandfather.
Murrill loved riding motorcycles at Hollister Hills and went on many cross-country motorcycle trips with his friends. He and Elaine took many cruises, including four “Hogs on the High Seas” cruises with Harley riders from all over the world. They enjoyed many Palm Dessert and Hawaii vacations. One year, Murrill caught a 105 lb Blue Marlin and a 35lb Spear Fish while in Hawaii, just two short months after his quadruple bypass surgery! They also enjoyed attending car auctions and car shows. Murrill’s pride and joy was his 1956 Oldsmobile, which earned him many trophies over the years. In 2004, they relocated to Lincoln, California, where Murrill became a founding member of the Lincoln Rods and Relics Car Club.
Murrill is lovingly survived by his devoted wife, Elaine (Spina) Conley; his children, Mike, Maryann, and Rick (Shellie), and his grandchildren, who were the light of his life. He took great pride in cheering them on and supporting them every step of the way.
No services are planned at this time, per Murrill’s wishes.