Basil Edward Lybrand 

Basil Edward Lybrand  

1936-2023  

CMS Basil Edward Lybrand, better known as “Lee,” “Eddie” or “Chief,” peacefully passed away on Aug. 8, 2023.  

He is survived by his wife, Judy Lybrand; daughters, Lynn Lybrand and Terri McCormack; granddaughters, Maggie McCormack and Lili McCormack; sister, Rita Ann Kale; brother-in-law, Charles Kale; stepchildren, Robert and Amy Reyner; nephews, Johnny Lybrand, Doug and Scott Kale, Vernon and Ronnie Horne: and nieces, Bobbie Lybrand Hicks and Debbie Horne Dupree.  

He is predeceased by his parents, Basil and Lillie Lybrand; brother, Ralph Lybrand; sisters, Juanita Lybrand Horne, Lois Lybrand and Carolyn Gayle Lybrand; nephews, Mickey Lybrand and Gary Lybrand; and niece, Audrey Barnes.  

Basil was born on Nov. 29, 1936, in Belmont, N.C. At the age of 17, a strong sense of self-reliance led to his decision to enter the U.S. Air Force before graduating high school. During his service, he not only completed his schooling, but also earned a BA before retiring. After retirement, he furthered his education at UNM, receiving a MA in adult education.  

Throughout his Air Force career of 27 years, Basil rose from E1 to E9, retiring as a chief master sergeant. He served in the areas of aircraft maintenance manager, first sergeant, aircraft propulsion superintendent and jet engine mechanic.  

His achievements were recognized by being awarded the National Defense Service Medal with one Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal, AF Commendation Medal, AF Outstanding Unit Award, AF Good Conduct Medal and Vietnam Service Medal.  

After retiring from the Air Force, he worked 12 years as a case manager with the New Mexico Department of Corrections.  

Also, after retirement, he found an activity and wonderful group of people that led to some of his happiest times — flying his PPG (powered paraglider) with the Rt. 66 Flyers.  

Basil will be remembered in different ways and for different things, but common threads are his even-keeled personality, intelligence, love of learning, truthfulness, sense of humor, kindness and the spark of joy he ignited every time he skillfully played the spoons at a social gathering.  

He will be missed by all who knew him.  

A celebration of life is planned from 1-4 p.m., Monday, Sept. 18, the NM Veterans Memorial, 1100 Louisiana Blvd. SE, Albuquerque. We invite all who shared in Basil’s life to join us.  

Funeral arrangements were trusted to Noblin Funeral Service, Los Lunas, 2211-D Main St., SE Los Lunas, NM, 87031, 505-866-9992.