Dr Melvyn Wayne Flye

Dr. Melvyn Wayne Flye

June 23, 1942- Jan 28, 2025

Dr. Melvyn Wayne Flye, a pioneering transplant surgeon who was deeply devoted to his family, passed away on January 28th at the age of 82. Born and raised in Tarboro, North Carolina, Wayne cherished his rural roots while making extraordinary strides in medicine, research and education.

Wayne earned his medical degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with subsequent surgical residency at Duke University. His groundbreaking work in transplantation surgery revolutionized the field, and he held prominent academic and leadership roles, mentoring future surgeons while tirelessly advancing surgical innovation.

One of his most meaningful achievements was performing a liver transplant on a 12 week old girl, the youngest such patient at the time. The bond they shared lasted decades, as he celebrated her life's major milestones- a testament to both his exceptional skill and the deep compassion that defined his career.

Wayne also served as an Army physician, retiring with the rank of lieutenant colonel, further exemplifying his unwavering commitment to service.

Wayne's insatiable curiosity and boundless passion for learning defined his life. Whether delving into history, teaching himself beekeeping, or growing oyster spats to help restore the Chesapeake Bay, he approached every endeavor with keen interest and a sense of adventure.

Wayne is preceded in death by his parents Charlie and Martha Flye and survived by his wife of 62 years, Phyllis Flye; his sons Christopher Flye (Megan) and Brandon Flye; his sister Brenda Puthenveetil (John); and three grandchildren, Joshua, Benjamin, and Jessica. He will be greatly missed and remembered for his compassion, ingenuity, and the enduring impact of a life well lived.

The family will have a private service at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Talbot Hospice House in Easton, MD.