Dr. Vicki Ann Luna

Dr. Vicki Ann Luna (née Howland) was born on May 13, 1951, in Waukegan, IL, and passed away in Land-O-Lakes, FL. She is survived by her sibling, Linda Weeks, her children, Antonio J. Luna, Francisco J. Luna, and Brandi R. O’Haegher, as well as her grandchildren, William, Aiden, Kyra, Reina, Parker, Elijah, Ofelia, and Donavin. 

Dr. Luna graduated summa cume laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from Holy Names College in 1987 and later earned her Master of Science and Ph.D. from the University of Washington in 1999. She began her career as a microbiologist and expanded her expertise to molecular microbiology and parasitology. Even before graduate school, she contributed to peer-reviewed publications. Her academic path led her to serve as a professor of biology at Columbia College. In her work with public health laboratories, she spearheaded high-consequence pathogen identification, utilizing molecular typing and source-attribution methods to trace dangerous bacteria, notably contributing to advances in Bacillus anthracis attribution. Her pioneering efforts also extended to DNA-based methodologies, including genomic fingerprinting of bacterial pathogens and mitochondrial-DNA analysis for tracing cellular material, which clarified origins and transmission pathways. Upon retiring from the University of South Florida’s College of Public Health, she left behind a legacy of rigorous scholarship, dedicated teaching, and a lifelong commitment to public health.

Dr. Luna was deeply admired for her loving, kind, generous, funny, loyal, considerate, curious, honest, and forthright nature. A devout and faithful Catholic, she lived her life with unwavering dedication to Christ and found joy and grace in her daily life. She cherished walking with her dog, Dante, whom she took on therapy-dog visits to veterans’ homes. She delighted in cooking for her family during holy days and holidays, especially hosting gatherings on Christmas Eve.  At home she loved her piano and listening to music, especially classic Puerto Rican salsa that reminded her of her Jimmy. Acrylic painting was a passion, and scenes from our life in Puerto Rico were her favorite subjects, and creating a warm, nurturing environment for her family and friends. She tended her garden with delight and loved growing her own food. For neighbors, friends, and her prayer group, she was readily present, there when needed and when simply wanted.

Viewing will be at 6 to 8 pm on 10/27/2025 at Loyless Funeral Home 5310 Land O' Lakes Blvd, Land O' Lakes, FL 34639

Ceremonial mass will be held at 10:30 am 10/28/2025 Our Lady of the Rosary 2348 Collier Parkway Land O Lakes, FL 34639

Committal (Graveside) Service will be held at 1:00 pm, 10/28/2025 Florida National Cemetery at Bushnell 6502 SW 102nd Ave. Bushnell, FL 33513