Unable to afford a medical school education during the Depression, John Murray aspired to a career in veterinary medicine. He credited his acceptance into Cornell in 1935 as a life-changing event, and never waivered from a deep commitment to both his profession and his alma mater. Murray established a general practice in Painted Post, a small community in southern New York. He was active in professional affairs at the State level, and ultimately served as president of the New York State Veterinary Medical Society. He became an avid and life-long supporter of the college and in 1990 was designated as one of Cornell University's Foremost Benefactors. His lasting respect, however, is to his beloved Class of 1939, and he remains in close contact with its several surviving members.