Honoring Mickey’s Journey to the Stars
As part of our Ashes to Space™ mission, we spotlight the lives and legacies of those who orbit with us—our Ashtronauts. Each tribute is submitted by loved ones who share a story, photos, and the spirit of someone worth remembering.
Ashtronaut™ is the designation given to individuals honored through Space Beyond’s Ashes to Space memorial spaceflight service.
Today, we honor: Ashtronaut Michael “Mickey” Murray
From: Deerfield Beach, Florida
Shared by: Pam Barnett, Sister
These stories remind us why this mission matters—not just for space exploration, but for love, remembrance, and connection.
Avid Space Enthusiast and Miami Football Fan
Michael (Mickey) Murray definitely lived life on his own terms.
He knew many people, had some very close friends and was liked by those who met him.
Mickey was passionate about some things. Of great interest to him was space flight. He spent countless hours and drove countless miles between Deerfield Beach, Florida and Titusville, Florida in order to be there to observe launches of Space Shuttles, any and all rocket launches; sometimes driving the distance multiple times a week. William J. Manzo Memorial Park is a place Mickey recommended as an observation point. He thoroughly enjoyed being there watching launches and the camaraderie of others who were there for the same reason, befriending many over the years.
A Miami Dolphins fan since their inception, Mickey was also an avid Miami Hurricanes fan; attending, watching or listening to all football games ~ texting family & friends every week reminding them of game time; as well as being interested in & keeping up with all Hurricanes sports. (His wardrobe consisted mainly of Miami Hurricane shirts!).
Mickey was also a fan/follower of stock car racing. He enjoyed watching videos of trains; had a nice collection of Hess Trucks and model cars.
His family hopes that maybe somehow from his life “on the other side” he will enjoy being launched into and orbiting in outer space.
May he rest in peace.
A Journey Beyond Earth
A portion of Mickey’s ashes will be launched to space aboard our upcoming mission, where they will orbit Earth as part of a lasting celestial tribute.
Whether stargazing from home or tracking the spacecraft through the app, Mickey’s loved ones will be able to follow the journey—knowing that their story is quite literally written in the stars.
Tribute Gallery – Ashtronaut Michael “Mickey” Murray
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Mickey was outstanding human being a good friend I will always remember his smile and his carisma u will be .missed RIP Mickey fly high 🙌