Professor William B. Levy

1947 - 2024

Remembering Professor William B Levy

On March 29, 2024, William "Chip" Levy breathed his last breath, succumbing to an aggressive metastatic cancer. Levy was born in St. Louis Missouri on March 28, 1947, oldest son of Lester H. Levy and Ina Mae (Aronberg) Levy. He earned his B.A. in Psychology from Princeton University in 1969 and swam on the varsity swim team. He earned his Ph.D. at the University of California, Irvine, School of Biological Sciences in 1973 and then served as a research fellow in the Department of Psychology at Harvard until 1974. Subsequently, he dedicated over 46 years of his life doing research and teaching at University of Virginia as a professor of neurosurgery. Levy was so deeply committed to his pursuit of knowledge and sharing it that he continued to work right up to the last day of his life.

Dr. Levy's academic pursuits centered on understanding the neural mechanisms of cognition, including synaptic plasticity, computational theories of brain function, and constraint-based interpretations of neural information processing. The International Neural Network Society honored him with the prestigious Hebb Award and his groundbreaking research has left an indelible mark on the field of neuroscience.

"Chip was the most single-minded scientist that I've ever known and probably the broadest thinker. He was intellectually honest, kind, and generous without any agenda beyond learning as much as he could about the brain," wrote Dr. Costa Colbert, a former Ph.D. student and a cherished friend who spent many transformative years studying under and collaborating with Levy.

Another long time collaborator Dr. Robert Baxter, shared a relationship spanning over 35 years, a testament to their enduring professional partnership and deep-rooted friendship. "I treasure the time we spent poring over new (and old) neuroscience research articles, discussing how energy consumption plays a significant role in brain development and function, and investigating how computation and communication are accomplished in the brain," wrote Baxter.

Also of note in Chip's life was his longtime partner and collaborator Nancy Desmond, Ph. D., who spent many years living and collaborating with him.

Profound admiration for Levy's unwavering dedication to unraveling the complexities of the brain is echoed by his peers and colleagues. His impact as a researcher, mentor, and individual of strength and dedication continues to resonate within the scientific community, inspiring future generations to delve deeper into the mysteries of neuroscience. Reflecting on his remarkable life and enduring legacy, we are reminded of his immeasurable contributions and the profound impact he has had on all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be missed by loved ones, friends, colleagues, students, and support staff alike. He had a giving heart and was gracious to others. When not pursuing his academic activities he could be found playing with his dogs, hiking in the woods, or tinkering with his classic and race cars. His last dog was aptly named Darwin. He will be missed.

Although Levy's loving wife Nancy Jane Levy died in 2010, Levy is survived by his devoted brother, Thomas Charles Levy.

A memorial to honor Professor Levy will be held on Saturday, May 4 at the Colonnade Club of UVA from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friends, family, and colleagues are welcome. Please visit this memorial website for more information: https://www.online-tribute.com/ProfessorWilliamChipLevy