In 1983, the Massey Cancer Center opened under the direction of Dr. Walter Lawrence Jr., a surgeon and former president of the American Cancer Society.

Lawrence’s love and passion for medicine and clinical innovation never waned. He continued to treat patients and mentor students into his 90s, and he always considered it a privilege to be able to offer medical help to those in need. Dr. Lawrence Jr., M died Nov. 9, 2021 at age 96.