Murdo Macleod, St Columba's, Stornoway

21 July 1944
It was with very great regret that the people of the Parish of Tarbat and also of a much wider circle, learned of the death by enemy action of Murdo Macleod junr, elder son of the Rev M and Mrs Macleod, Tarbat West Manse. Both Mr and Mrs Macleod are natives of Lewis, the former of Uig and the latter of Laxdale. Rev Mr Macleod was minister of St Columba's, Stornoway, and Balnakil, before going to Tarbat West.

Murdo, who was only 21 years of age, commenced his education at Tarbat Old School, Portmahomack. Thence, he proceeded to Tain Academy, where he had a successful career, endearing himself to teachers and pupils alike and gaining among other distinctions the position of School Captain and by the unanimous vote of his class-fellows, the Benson Prize awarded annually to the most exemplary pupil in the Senior Division. From Tain, he proceeded to Edinburgh University to study for an Arts Degree, with the intention of going on later to Divinity. Here also he was a very successful student, and here too he won the affection and esteem of all with whom he came in contact.

On completion of his Arts Course, he volunteered for service with the RAF. While training as a Wireless Operator his ability and worth were soon recognised and he was selected for special training as an Intelligence Officer. His death is specially mourned because of what he was - a young man of unassuming disposition, kindliness of heart, nobility and graciousness of spirit and sterling Christian character, which qualities made him the friend and well-wisher of all, loved and esteemed in return by all.

The funeral took place to Tarbat Churchyard and was attended by a large company of mourners from near and far. The service at the Manse was conducted by the Rev D. Macbean, Logie-Easter; the Rev A. Macleod, Tarbat East Church, and the Rev N Macleod, Tarbat Free Church, and at the graveside by the Rev K Macleod, Nigg Chapelhill. The richer for Murdo's life and the poorer by his death, many mourn his untimely passing, and to his parents, brothers and sisters is extended deepest sympathy in their loss of so exemplary a son and one so full of promise, and such an affectionate and devoted brother.