Parishioners of the Youngstown Catholic Diocese, as well as leaders of the community, said their final farewell to Bishop George Murry on Thursday afternoon.

Just before 1:00 p.m., Bishop George Murry was ushered into St. Columba Cathedral by Ursuline students, serving as pallbearers.

It was a difficult day for those who had so much respect for him. 

"Everyone catholic or non-catholic alike really loved that man," said Sandra Masour of Boardman.

"We're deeply going to miss him, but we know he is up there praying for us in heaven watching over our families," said Mark Adams of Louisville.

Many different walks of life came to pay their respects, a testament to how many lives he touched.

"When he came to our church I kissed his ring, he was so happy," recalled Livia Keresztesi from Our Lady of Hungary Church.

As many walked through, some paused to pray as the Knights of Columbus stood guard. Bishop Murry was a "brother Knight."

"I just consider it a great honor to be standing next to his casket today, when you're a Knight of Columbus you get to participate in things like this and it's very, very special," said Paul Crowley with Knights of Columbus.

"His personality, his love of the church, his dedication to the church and his willingness to be a friend," described Bill Howe with Knights of Columbus, as qualities he will miss.

Friday, a private funeral service is scheduled. 21 News will stream the service beginning at 1:00 pm on both the 21 News app and our sister-station WBCB.