George M. Hecker

Dr. George M. Hecker of Pittsboro, age 102, died on August 25th, 2025. He is survived by his loving wife, Lucia Bryant Hecker, and three children: Lisa McKnight Ward of Norfolk, VA; Emily McKnight Townsend of Madison, WI; and Timothy Bryant McKnight of Santa Clarita, CA.

He is also survived by the children of his deceased wife Janice Mori Hecker.  Surviving are daughters: Carla Watrud of Valparaiso, IN; Sandra Dunn of Morehead City, NC; and son: Mark Hecker of Chesapeake, VA; seven grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; and five great-great grandchildren. A sister, Nina Martin of Annapolis, MD, also survives. 

Dr. Hecker lived a long, vibrant life. He was an officer in the United States Navy, serving as a submarine commander and fighting in WWII. After retiring, he taught Oceanography at Old Dominion University and math and science at Norfolk City Schools and Norfolk Academy, where he also coached soccer.

Throughout his life, Dr. Hecker was always very active and loved the water. He was an avid sailor and world traveler. While at the Naval Academy, he was a gymnast, cheerleader, and diver. He was also a certified scuba diver and instructor.

When he and his wife moved to Fearrington later in life, he found his place in the community by joining the Grits Glee Club and sharing his love of singing with other residents. He will be remembered as optimistic, cheerful, thoughtful, and kind, and he will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests instead that donations be made to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Donaldson Funeral Home and Crematory is honored to serve the Hecker Family.