UBTech Champion of Education (Posthumous Honoree) Raymond Murray
Written by Lezlee Whiting
Raymond Murray lived a life defined by service and commitment to his community. Honored posthumously as a UBTech Champion of Education, Raymond’s influence continues to shape the Uintah Basin through the people he supported and the example he set.
Raymond served on the UBTech Board of Trustees for approximately 15 years, lending steady leadership and guidance and a belief that education is the cornerstone of opportunity. His dedication to education extended far beyond UBTech. In 2011, he received Utah State University’s Annual Diversity Award for his instrumental role in restructuring the former Todd Elementary School and West Middle School into what is now Eagle View Elementary School, a K-through-8 school serving students and families who are predominantly Native American.
A lifelong cattleman, Raymond was named Cattleman of the Year in 2004. Alongside his wife, JoAnn, he raised Black Angus cattle in the Little Water area of west Uintah County, ranching at the base of Mosby Mountain for more than 45 years. It was there – on the mountain working the land and caring for livestock – that Raymond was happiest.
Raymond’s commitment to public service was extensive. He served on numerous boards and committees, including the Utah State Oil, Gas, and Mining Board; the Uintah Basin Medical Center Board of Trustees; the Duchesne County Hospital board; the Mosby and Deep Creek Irrigation Board; the Farm Service Board; the Ute Tribe Education Board; and the UBATC Board. He also served a four-year term on the Ute Tribal Business Committee.
Well known for his outgoing personality and sense of humor, Raymond thrived on being involved. Whether it was serving on boards and committees, managing Bottle Hollow Resort in Fort Duchesne during its heyday as a community gathering place, or meeting friends every morning for coffee at the Frontier Grill, Raymond believed in connection and community. He was accepting of everyone – his daughter Janece fondly recalls, “Dad didn’t see color – ever.”
Raymond embraced life with energy and fun. Over the years, he raced snowmobiles, chariots, flat saddle horses, and stock cars, forming many lasting friendships at the Roosevelt track. He was an avid hunter who cherished time spent pheasant and elk hunting, most often with his son, Tige, by his side. Those days on the mountain – hunting, laughing, and sharing meals – remain some of the family’s most treasured memories over the decade since Raymond has been gone.
Above all, Raymond was a devoted family man. He was deeply proud of his children, Janece and Tige, and his grandchildren, and never missed an opportunity to support them. Despite his many leadership roles and frequent travel, Janece recalled how her dad never missed one of her softball games and was famously enthusiastic from the sidelines – often punctuated by his unmistakable “GAHHHH!” when a play didn’t quite come off as it should.
Family dinners always began with Raymond’s favorite question, “What’s for D?” – meaning what are we having for DESSERT?!
Janece remembers her father simply “being there.” Raymond and JoAnn were present for every milestone, every award, every activity. “Any time I received an award,” she recalls, “he would just beam.”
Raymond Murray’s legacy is one of service, inclusion, hard work, and joy. His impact on education, agriculture, and community leadership remains deeply felt. UBTech is proud to honor him as a Champion of Education – one whose life exemplified what it means to lead with heart, humor, and purpose.
A lifelong advocate for the Uintah Basin—including 15 years on UBTech’s Board of Trustees—Raymond Murray is honored posthumously as a 2026 UBTech Champion of Education.
Pictured with family, JoAnn Murray receives the 2026 UBTech Champion of Education award—accepted posthumously on behalf of her late husband, Raymond Murray.
From left to right: JoAnn Murray (accepting the award on behalf of her late husband, Raymond Murray) and Marcia Barber—2026 UBTech Champions—stand with UBTech President Aaron Weight. Mark Stewart and Jackie and Bill Wright were honored with the 2026 UBTech Way Awards for their positive examples and service in the community.
