It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Lucy Menefee, MSN, DNP, ANP-BC. Lucy was a compassionate nurse practitioner and a dedicated teammate with the University of North Carolina Division of Nephrology and Hypertension. The void left by Lucy’s departure will be felt deeply by all who knew her.
Lucy embodied the essence of patient-centered care. Her warm and attentive approach made her an invaluable member of our team at Carolina Dialysis Mebane and Fresenius Kidney Care Burlington, where her patients cherished her unwavering support for the past decade. As the Clinic Director at the UNC Burlington Nephrology Clinic, Lucy provided exceptional care and served as a pillar of support for her colleagues, collaborating closely with physicians to ensure the highest standards of care in dialysis.
“I am lucky to have worked closely with her,” Dr. Raven Voora said. “She is special in so many ways. One of Lucy’s favorite things to say was, ‘I got this’ in response to any request for help. This phrase reflects her positive attitude, tireless energy and sense of responsibility to her patients and colleagues.”
Lucy was an influential member of the UNC Nephrology Burlington team that received the Carolina Care Excellence Award in 2021, distinguishing the clinic as a leader in patient experience. Her altruism significantly enhanced the care provided to adult patients with chronic kidney disease, including those with end-stage renal disease and those undergoing dialysis.
“Lucy’s untimely death has left her teammates and patients with a deep sense of loss,” said Dr. Gerald Hladik. “Lucy knew her patients extraordinarily well, which enabled her to serve them with the highest level of humanism. Beyond her prowess as an outstanding clinician, she brought smiles to all with her uplifting personality and wit.”
Beyond her commitment to patient care, Lucy played a crucial role in strengthening the nephrology team. As the Nephrology Lead Advanced Practice Provider, she took the initiative to train new teammates, develop clinical service plans, and serve as the primary contact for advanced practice providers. Her leadership and mentorship will continue to be a guiding light.
“Lucy was an incredibly valued member of our Division and an all-out wonderful person, known for her limitless dedication to patients, fun personality, and adventuresome spirit. She will be missed deeply by us all, but especially by her patients, who truly adored her,” Dr. Jennifer Flythe, chief of the UNC Division of Nephrology and Hypertension said.
You can read more about Lucy’s life and contributions in her obituary here.