George Edson Lackey

Melbourne – George (Bud) Lackey of Melbourne, FL passed away peacefully on April 26, 2018 at home. He was born in Oakham, Massachusetts in 1923, the son of a farmer, and lived in a rustic farm house typical of that time and place, without running water or electricity. Upon graduating from high school in 1941 he joined the Navy, a few short months before World War II began. Three years later he was promoted to Chief Petty Officer and became one of the Navy’s youngest Chiefs. In 1958 the Navy created the Senior Chief grade and George was on the first selection list. A year later when they created the Master Chief grade, George once again was selected and promoted.

George married the love of his life, Beverly, in 1944. Together they raised four children, Joan, Glenn, Wayne and Gayle, moving every two years to a variety of Navy Stations.

Upon his retirement from the Navy in 1963, George went on to a successful career in insurance underwriting in Jacksonville, FL, from which he retired in 1988. He became an active member of the Fleet Reserve Association and the Knights of Columbus and enjoyed reading, gardening and fishing. He and Beverly enjoyed 16 great retirement years before Beverly was diagnosed with dementia. For the next four years George devoted himself to her; providing care, comfort and love to his partner of 64 years. Beverly passed away in 2008.

George moved to Brevard County in 2010 to live with his son Glenn and spent his time visiting with his family, fishing, woodworking and reading. A lifelong avid fisherman, he spent countless days on the Indian River pursuing red fish and trout, and offshore fishing for king mackerel.

He is survived by his children Glenn Lackey, Wayne Lackey and Gayle (Lackey) Sheffield; his seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 12, 2018 in Hardage-Giddens Chapel Hills.The Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, May 12, 2018 at 2:00 PM in Hardage-Giddens Chapel Hills, followed by interment in Chapel Hills Memory Gardens, 850 St. Johns Bluff Road, Jacksonville, FL. 32225.

Arrangements by HARDAGE-GIDDENS CHAPEL HILLS, 850 St. Johns Bluff Rd. Jacksonville, FL 32225 (904) 641-9755.