In the exploration of programming languages and their longevity, Timm Murray reflects on the enduring presence of COBOL, a language his grandfather once declared "dead" in a 1992 article for Technical Support magazine. The article, filled with the jargon of its time, highlights the perception of COBOL as a relic, yet it has proven to be remarkably resilient, outlasting many other programming languages that were once considered more modern. Murray humorously suggests that COBOL might be more accurately described as a "zombie" language—something that is technically dead but continues to exist in some form. He draws a parallel to Autocoder, an earlier programming language that has largely faded from use but still has remnants in the computing landscape. This notion challenges the finality of the term "dead" when applied to programming languages, as many continue to linger in legacy systems, supported by a dwindling number of programmers. The Y2K problem is identified as a significant factor in COBOL's continued relevance. Despite the hype surrounding the potential crisis, it prompted a resurgence in the demand for COBOL programmers, ensuring that the language remained in use longer than anticipated. Murray notes that programming languages with a substantial historical user base rarely disappear completely; instead, they fade into obscurity, often without new generations of programmers to carry them forward. On a personal note, Murray shares the recent passing of his grandfather, who died at the age of 91. His grandfather's death, attributed to pneumonia, follows the loss of his grandmother earlier that year. This personal reflection adds a layer of poignancy to the discussion of legacy, both in programming and in family history, as he recalls the dry wit of his grandfather and the pride he felt in mirroring his humor. Through this narrative, Murray encapsulates the complexities of programming languages, the impact of technological evolution, and the personal connections that intertwine with these themes.