Melvin Hilton Lucy, age 87, of Virginia Beach, passed away on June 25, 2024.
“Mel” was born October 15, 1936 in Norfolk, VA; a son of the late Philip Percival and Lois Hilton Lucy. He is survived by his three sons: Terrence H. Lucy and wife, Serena; Timothy A. Lucy and wife, Denise; and Toby E. Lucy and wife, Jill. He is also survived by eight grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his wife of over 50 years, Bonnie Joan Lucy, brothers: Philip Lucy, William Lucy, and James Lucy; and his sisters Ann Smith and Lucinda Jones. He had lived with his family in Norfolk, VA, Cape May, NJ, and Virginia Beach, VA.
He enjoyed travelling, camping, hiking, biking and gardening. He was very interested in the Lucy family geneology. He also enjoyed visits to aviation and aeronautics museums and local air shows.
Melvin was a 1962 graduate of Virginia Tech. He worked for NACA/NASA for an amazing 65+ years. He worked on important NASA projects, has numerous patents and received many awards during his tenure including an Exceptional Service Medal. He retired at the age of 85 in 2022.
He was a major participant in the Royal Ambassadors Baptist Mission for young boys (grades1-6) at Bayside Baptist Church in Virginia Beach in the 1960s (when his sons were young).
He was very generous with his time and resources in helping others over the years. He helped care for his mother Lois, his youngest brother James, his sister-in-law Marian Renegar and he took great care of his wife, Bonnie, during each of their declines in health and subsequent passings.
He remained very thankful to the administration and staff at Marian Manor in Virginia Beach and the staff of Westminster-Canterbury At Home Hospice services. He always appreciated visits from family & friends and other Marian Manor residents during his two-year stay.
In lieu of flowers or cards, donations or contributions to the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore, the Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach or the Virginia Air & Space Science Center in Hampton in his name would be greatly appreciated.