Lucy N. Autry

Lucy Neri Autry went to be with her Lord on March 4, 2025 while at Ave Maria Home in Bartlett, Tennessee.Lucy, born Luz Neri Torres on April 22, 1921 was raised in Lares, Puerto Rico by her parents, Jose Calcerrade Torres and Monserrata Delgado Torres. Lucy met and married Arby J. Autry in 1947 while he was stationed in Puerto Rico serving in the U.S. Air Force. After traveling with Arby to many different military locations they settled in Memphis. They were married for 59 years before he passed in 2005. Their only child Paul Brian Autry passed away in 2011. Lucy received a B.S. in Biology and a Diploma in Medical Technology from the University of Puerto Rico in 1942. In 1974 Lucy earned a Masters in Microbiology from Memphis State University. She was a certified Medical Technologist and a member of many professional organizations. She served as Instructor/Coordinator for the School of Medical Technology at St. Joseph Hospital from 1970 - 1974 and then at St. Francis Hospital from 1974 - 1984 when she retired. She and Arby then wore the pink and red jackets as volunteers at St. Francis Hospital. Lucy was passionate about her profession and being part of the healthcare team. In 1977 - 1978 she was honored to become a member of Who's Who in American Women. Lucy was a warm, extroverted person with a charming smile and engaging laugh. She spent her life focusing on other people, especially members of her family. She loved Puerto Rico, the United States and her Catholic faith. She was active in church organizations, quilting, knitting and was a master gardener. She had a love of reading, especially the classics and spiritual readings. Books filled the shelves wherever she lived. Lucy leaves behind seven beloved nieces and nephews in Puerto Rico and the United States. Lucy was predeceased by her husband, Arby; son, Brian; her parents, as well as her sister and two brothers. Lucy was a member of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Cordova, Tennessee. She lived at Ave Maria Home for 13 years. The staff at Ave Maria Home were not only caregivers but friends and family. Friends and family of Lucy will gather on Monday, March 10, 2025 from 12:30 PM until funeral mass begins at 1:00 PM all at Ave Maria Home, 2795 Charles Bryan Road, Bartlett, TN 38134. Burial with escorted cortege will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Please consider donations to Wounded Warriors or Ave Maria Home of Bartlett, Tennessee. Online condolences, floral tributes and directions may be found through www.memphisfuneralhome.net.