For 18 years John “Lucky” Luckadoo was a beloved part of life at Presbyterian Village North (PVN). At 103 he took his final flight on September 1, 2025.
Lucky’s story is one of remarkable courage. He survived 25 dangerous missions in a B-17 during World War II with the “Bloody Hundredth” 100th Bomb Group. His experiences were later captured in the book Damn Lucky and in HBO’s Masters of the Air. After the war he built a successful life in Dallas and shared his story as a speaker and consultant so that future generations would remember the sacrifices of his fellow airmen.
Here at PVN Lucky was more than a hero. He was a friend, a source of encouragement and an example of resilience. In a recent interview with CBS News he said, “I lived every day to the fullest because I never knew which would be my last.” His words and his presence will continue to inspire all of us.
We invite you to look back at some of the special moments he shared with PVN through the links below and to remember Lucky not only for his history but also for his heart.
Click here to read the tribute to Lucky posted in the New York Times.
