Pappu Lakshmi Narasimha Murthy

Dr. Pappu L.N. Murthy, beloved husband, father, grandfather, scientist, chess master, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026, at the age of 76 after a courageous battle against myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) turned acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

Born in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India, on December 28, 1949, Murthy displayed an extraordinary curiosity and love of learning from an early age. He earned his Bachelor of Technology degree from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur before traveling to the United States to pursue graduate studies. He received his Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 1979 and went on to dedicate more than four decades to NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland. During his distinguished 42-year career, he made significant contributions to aerospace research, earned numerous awards for excellence, and retired in 2024 with the respect and admiration of colleagues throughout the scientific community.

While his professional accomplishments were remarkable, Murthy's greatest pride was always his family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Gayatri; his sons, Vasanth (Laya) and Ananth (Denise); his cherished grandchildren: Sahithi, Ishika, Giavanna, Francisco, and Julian; his younger brother, Kiran; and his younger sister, Manusha. He was preceded in death by his parents, his older brother Prasad, and his beloved grandson Michelangelo, whom he never stopped remembering with love.

To his grandchildren, he was simply "Thatha"—his favorite title of all. His signature greeting, "It's Thatha Time!", was always accompanied by open arms, a warm smile, and an even warmer embrace. Whether attending dance recitals, soccer games, birthday celebrations, or simply spending time together, he delighted in every moment with his grandchildren. He dreamed of teaching each of them chess, sharing not only the game he loved but also the lessons it offered about patience, discipline, and thoughtful decision-making.

Murthy's love for chess defined much of his life. A US Chess Federation Life Master, he remained one of the nation's most active tournament players for decades and was among the oldest regular competitors in Chess.com's prestigious Titled Tuesday events. Yet he found equal joy teaching the game to his sons, mentoring younger players, and discussing strategy with anyone willing to learn. His favorite reminders—"Every piece, every square" and "Must have killer instinct"— resonate in his sons to this day.

Outside of work and chess, Murthy embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He loved photography, technology, tennis, table tennis, music, and exploring the latest gadgets. He was an early adopter who delighted in experimenting with computers, digital photography, artificial intelligence, and anything that sparked his imagination. Family members often sought his advice on technology, while his grandchildren simply enjoyed the funny AI images and videos he loved creating for them.

He treasured simple pleasures: long walks, evenings watching television with Gayatri, sharing stories over the phone with family and friends, enjoying dosas at his favorite Indian restaurants, and never passing up on ice cream—especially pistachio or caramel. No matter how full he was after dinner, he insisted there was always room for dessert.

Murthy also had a wonderful sense of humor and an infectious optimism. He loved music and would often hum familiar tunes or unexpectedly break into song. He had countless memorable expressions that became family traditions, from commenting "Human element again..." whenever a movie slowed down to enthusiastically applauding dramatic television moments. His laughter, kindness, and playful spirit made everyone around him feel welcome.

Perhaps Murthy's greatest gift was the genuine interest he took in others. He maintained friendships across decades and continents, regularly calling family and friends simply to stay connected. When someone was ill or facing hardship, he made every effort to visit, encourage, and offer support. He treated people with respect, generosity, and sincerity, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Even during his illness, Murthy faced each day with remarkable courage, positivity, and grace. He continued to smile, joke with family, and show concern for others, demonstrating the resilience and strength that defined his character throughout his life.

Murthy leaves behind a legacy far greater than his professional achievements or tournament victories. He leaves a family strengthened by his love, friends enriched by his kindness, students inspired by his mentorship, and grandchildren who will forever hear his joyful words: "It's Thatha Time!"

He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in the hearts of all who knew him.

A dignified cremation has been entrusted to Slone & Company.