Harry Levy Jr.

LEVY, Harry Jr., 85, of Richmond passed away on January 20 to join the love of his life and recently departed wife of 59 years, Doris. He was born on September 23, 1925, the son of Harry, Sr. and Sadie. He was raised in Richmond and went on to star in football at St. Christopher’s. Harry was a veteran of World War II, proudly serving in the U.S. Navy. He graduated from Virginia Tech in 1954 with an engineering degree and was a lifelong Hokie fan. He could often be found wearing his Virginia Tech hat and sweatshirt while reading a book on the history of Tech football. He worked as a structural engineer for several firms until his retirement from McKinney & Walker of Ashland. Harry was later honored for his design work on the Markel Building, which is now recognized as a Henrico County historic landmark. Engineers in those days did not have the benefit of computer aided design or scientific calculators. Instead, they had to rely on their knowledge of engineering theory and slide rules, which made his accomplishment all the more remarkable. Harry was also fond of cars, and in fact, one night brought home a new Plymouth Barracuda to the amazement of his wife who wondered how she would be able to take three boys to baseball practice in a two door sports car. He also liked a good party, usually in the accompaniment of his friend Jack Daniel. He is survived by brother-in-law Robert Sibley of Richmond; three sons, David and his wife Jane of Glen Allen; James and his wife Connie of Richmond; and Tom and his wife Connie of Atlanta, Georgia; six grandchildren, Brent Levy and his wife Natalie; Elizabeth Levy, John Levy, Evan Levy, Michael Levy, and Joseph “Chip” Levy; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his sister Ellen Sibley. Harry was a true Southern gentleman and a wonderful role model for his three sons. The family thanks Yvonne Wright and the staff of the Lynmoore for their loving care during his final years. Graveside services will be held at Westhampton Memorial Park, 10000 Patterson Ave., on Sunday, January 23, 2011, at 10am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.