James (H) Murray

James H. Murray, M.D., 81 years of age of West Hartford, CT, passed away on Thursday, January 11, 2018. James was the beloved husband of Judith (Morris) Murray. Born in Beaver, PA, he was the son of the late James Hamilton and Emma Victoria (Snodgrass) Murray.

At fifteen-years old, James was awarded a Ford Foundation scholarship and attended Yale University. After graduating in 1956, James enlisted in the US Navy’s Officer Candidate School, where he earned his commission as a Lieutenant Commander and proudly served his country for five years.

James then attended Temple University Medical School, where he met Judith, who was enrolled in Temple’s nursing program. Upon graduation, James accepted an internship at Minnesota’s Mayo Clinic, where he specialized in gastroenterology. In 1972, James and Judith moved from Rochester, MN to Rocky Hill, CT after James accepted a position with Connecticut Gastroenterology, where he practiced medicine until his 2012 retirement.

James calmly, joyfully devoted himself to all that he did. His patients appreciated his humor, dedication, and selflessness. His family delighted in his wit, generosity, and unconditional love. He was a gifted musician, sailor, and woodworker.

James is survived by his beloved wife, Judith; his son, Jamie D. Murray and his wife, Kerry, of Santa Rosa, CA; his daughter, Elizabeth Hourigan and her husband, Peter, of Wilmington, NC; his brothers, Boyd Murray and his wife, Jan, of Ben Avon, PA; Robert Murray and his wife, Cathy, of Lake City, PA; his four beloved grandchildren, Ella, Nora, Jane, and Will.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, January 16, 2018 in the Chapel of the Weinstein Mortuary, 640 Farmington Ave., Hartford, CT with Rabbi Michael Pincus officiating. Interment will follow in the Congregation Beth Israel Cemetery, 51 Jackson St., Avon, CT. Immediately following the Interment, the family will receive relatives and friends at the Town and County Club, 22 Woodland St., Hartford, CT. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.