Ivy Fay Hooks, age 84, passed away peacefully in her Boerne, Tx apartment on March 23, 2026. She was born on November 17, 1941, in Houston, Tx and grew up in Livingston, Tx. She is preceded in death by her mother, Fay Hooks, father, A.B. Hooks, and two brothers, Ray Hooks and A.B. Hooks Jr., as well as her partner of over 40 years Bruce Jackson. She is survived by two of her brothers, Jimmy Hooks and David Hooks, along with many nieces, nephews, children she considered her own, grandchildren and cousins that love her dearly.

       Ivy is a pioneer woman for aerospace and is recognized at NASA for her contributions to the space program and moon landing. Ivy, interested in mathematics, knew there were not many jobs available for women in that career field during the early 1960’s. Determined to avoid being a schoolteacher she pursued a master’s degree in mathematics and physics from the University of Houston. After graduating in 1965 she joined NASA. She was hired as an “aerospace technologist,” annoying many of the male engineers. Despite being brilliant, Ivy attributes most of her career success to her ability to not take any heat from her male co-workers. She would often say growing up with four younger brothers meant the men at NASA could not scare her, even when they tried their hardest with snakes etc. Ivy took on many projects that the other engineers would turn down, such as modeling the lighting on the moon. These concepts were not covered at the University, but Ivy never shied away from a challenge. In 1969 she became one of only two women assigned to the original design team for the space shuttle orbiter. She continued to be a vital presence throughout her career and won numerous awards for her exceptional service. After leaving NASA, Ivy took on various roles in related fields and became a sought-after seminar speaker and educator for her vast knowledge and creativity in the field. She eventually founded and managed her own company. Ivy was humble. She was always proud of her work but never boastful.

      She was loved by many, both professionally and personally. Ivy cherished her loved ones and was a glue that kept people connected. Ivy was stubborn and was not afraid to tell anyone what they needed to hear. She knew what she stood for, what she wanted, and she made it happen. She loved to travel and loved fine arts. She served on the board of the Boerne Community Theatre and enjoyed her many adventures serving the city of Boerne. She spoke very highly of her time reading to the kids at the Cibolo Nature Center. Ivy always said she enjoyed giving more than receiving. Her faith in Jesus meant she never missed an opportunity to help someone in need and was always generous to her friends, family, neighbors and community.

       In lieu of flowers, please “pay it forward,” by helping someone in need or donating to your local community theatre in Ivy’s name. Ivy would smile at flowers but would completely light up knowing that someone in need has been blessed.

A celebration of life will be held in the summer of 2026. Details will be shared when available.