Stacy King Gandy, age 66, passed away peacefully in her home on September 6, 2026. Born in Durant, Mississippi, on May 12, 1960, to Ann and Calvin King, Stacy built a life defined by passion, service, and excellence in aviation.

Stacy attended Durant High School and graduated from the University of South Florida, earned her Private Pilot license with Helicopter Rating, and achieved certification as an FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) mechanic with Inspection Authorization (IA). She dedicated much of her career to keeping hospital helicopter aircrews safe in service to the Tampa Bay area communities. Honoring history and inspiring fellow aviators, Stacy also restored and flew retired military aircraft in airshows across the country. She concluded her storied career by passing on her knowledge and craftsmanship, teaching aircraft maintenance to the next generation of mechanics at local technical colleges.

Stacy is survived by her daughter, Cari Gandy, as well as a large extended family, countless friends, and the many students she took under her wing throughout her lifetime. She is deeply missed and continues to be an inspiration.