Lucy Byrd Pegau

Daughter of Arthur August and Susan Wills Pegau, Lucy Byrd was a lifelong resident of Charlottesville, Virginia. She attended Saint Anne’s Belfield school, earned her undergraduate degree at Randolph Macon College then went on to earn her Masters of Science at Oberlin University. She taught biology and photography at Miss Porter’s School from 1956 until 1992.

Lucy Byrd was abundant of spirit and generous of stories. She built her own family: of students she taught, of campers she shepherded, of neighbors and church friends, fellow biologists, tree surgeons, lobstermen, tennis partners, Deer Isle residents, stray animals, and strangers. She lifted all with her integrity, her acumen, and her empathy.

Lucy Byrd was an incandescent teacher, imparting wisdom, and oftentimes opinion, during her years. Among them: animals are the best traveling companions so always bring one: dog, cat, parakeet, rabbit, quail, mouse--yes, even black snake. Have an open heart and nimble mind. Collect shells and rocks. Take pleasure in the unexpected. Always wear a life jacket. Be resourceful. Carry a rope. Judge not by appearances. Don’t worry about wearing matching clothes. Make paths through the woods. To get in her good graces, students knew to pick dandelions for her rabbits and move turtles out of harm’s way.

A pied piper of the purest intent, Lucy Byrd was a true force of nature, the real deal. She was a lifelong member of St. Paul’s Memorial Church, University Avenue, Charlottesville where her funeral will be on Monday, May 9th at 11:00 am. As she would say when ending any great project, Alrighty now, okee dokee.

Fly free, Miss Lucy Byrd Pegau, Lucy Byrd, Byrdie. Take wing and soar.