Dr. Guy Pollard York passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. He was born on November 29, 1935, in Asheboro, NC, a beloved son of Aytch and Evelyn York.

Guy was a gifted engineer and lifelong scholar. He earned his undergraduate and master's degrees in civil engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and his PhD at the University of Texas at Austin. He was a member of Sigma Nu fraternity and academic honorary societies (Tau Beta Pi and Chi Epsilon). His intellect, discipline, and commitment to excellence shaped both his professional achievements and his service to others.

On June 23, 1960, Guy married the love of his life, Virginia Sumerford, at St. Giles' Cathedral in Edinburgh, Scotland. Together, Guy and Virginia shared a lifelong passion for travel, joyfully exploring the world side by side. From distant countries to cherished family destinations, their adventures reflected Guy's curiosity, sense of wonder, and delight in experiencing life fully - often accompanied by his unmistakable big laugh that filled a room and lifted the spirits of those around him.

A devoted husband and a proud, loving father, Guy took great joy in the lives and accomplishments of his children and grandchildren. Guy and Virginia's son, Dr. George Woltz Pollard York, his wife Diane, and their sons - Rees Andrews (Julia), Henry Pollard, and James Richardson (Kennedy) - live in Colorado. Their daughter, Dr. Timmerly York Bullman, and her husband, Mark Bullman, live in Roswell, GA. Guy is also survived by his brother, George Woltz York, and his wife Miriam of Houston, TX.

Colonel York served his country with distinction in the US Air Force for 29 years - beginning and ending in Germany. His assignments also included service in Korea, Vietnam, and multiple bases throughout the United States. His military accomplishments include: he was part of the team that constructed Tuy Hòa Air Force Base in less than one year during the Vietnam war; served as program manager for the construction of the world's largest wind tunnel at Arnold Engineering Development Complex in Tennessee; and acted as project manager for the ground-launched cruise missile system extending from Sicily to the North Sea.

After retiring from the Air Force, Guy continued to serve his country as a civilian, concluding his professional career with Northrop Grumman. Among his notable civilian accomplishments were his work rebuilding of the United States Embassy in Russia, serving on the Bay County Military Affairs Committee, and participating in The Rotary Club. His leadership, integrity, and dedication left a lasting impact on those who served with him.

Above all, Guy was a man of deep and abiding faith. He loved God wholeheartedly and found great joy in worship, especially in singing praises to Him - sharing his voice in the choir at First United Methodist Church and the Hims of Grace. His faith guided his life, sustained him through challenges, and shaped his character, which was marked by humility, service, and gratitude.

Dr. Guy Pollard York will be remembered for his generous spirit, his infectious laughter, his devotion to family, his distinguished service to his country, and his unwavering faith. His legacy lives on in those he loved and in the many lives he touched.

A visitation will be held from 9:00am until a Celebration of Life begins at 10:00am Saturday, February 7, 2026, at First United Methodist Church, Panama City, FL.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the general fund of First United Methodist Church, Panama City, FL.