Luke Merritt Nutt, 86, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at his home in Pensacola, FL. Luke was born in May 1940 in Dunedin, FL, to the late Laura and Luke Nutt. He grew up in nearby Largo, FL, and graduated from Largo High School in 1958. Soon after, he joined the US Navy, beginning a career of active duty and civilian service that would span 37 years. He retired from his final duty station, NAS Patuxent River, MD, in 1995.

Luke served the Navy with honor and sound judgement, and his work set a high standard for himself and for the teams he led. He built his career in the field of Naval Aviation, and throughout his career, Luke received numerous accolades and was recognized for his leadership, teamwork, and technical and professional expertise. One of his proudest accomplishments was his assignment to the Adversary/Strike Warfare contract and his work with the US Navy Fighter Weapons School, better known as Top Gun. Luke loved anything with a motor, and he especially loved aircraft. He passed that love of Naval Aviation to his children and grandchildren, who grew up hearing his stories and sharing his excitement.

Above all, Luke was a loving family man, a devoted friend, and an avid RV’er and sailor. After retiring, Luke and his beloved wife, Lyn, traveled around the country with their fifth wheel, making friends and having a good time all along the way. They first settled in Mathews, VA, and later made their home in Pensacola, one of Luke’s former duty stations. They finally settled in a retirement community where Luke quickly built meaningful friendships, organized and hosted Friday happy hours, raised money for the Heritage Fund, managed “Luke’s Car Lot”, and served on committees where he felt he could enrich the community he loved. If a neighbor’s scooter broke down, or anything else needed fixing, Luke was the one they called. His whole life he always exhibited kindness to others, optimism, a gift for seeing the good in everyone, and an abiding faith in God and the promise of eternal life.

Luke is survived by his treasured wife Lyn, (whom he lovingly called “Precious”); his daughter, Margaret Boorom (Mike); his son, Rick Tarr (Bennett); his son-in-law, Steve Pavlecka; his beloved grandchildren, Phil (Diana), Nathaniel, Matthew, Jake, Sean and Hayden; his great grandson, Erik; and his sister, Maryian Deak.

He is preceded in death by his daughter, Cheryl Pavlecka, who we believe is waiting to welcome him home.

A Celebration of Life will be held 11:00am Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at the Azalea Trace Auditorium, 10100 Hillview Dr., Pensacola, FL. A private family burial will be held at Barrancas National Cemetery.

Due to allergies and medical conditions, the family kindly asks that no flowers be sent. In lieu of flowers, Luke requested that donations be made to Acts Legacy Foundation noting on the memo line WillowBrooke Court Fund. Checks may be mailed to Acts Retirement Life Communities, 420 Delaware Dr., Fort Washington, PA 19034. Checks may also be dropped off at Azalea Trace or donations made online at Acts Legacy Foundation WillowBrook Court Fund The family appreciates everyone’s support and kindness.