Obituary of Grace Lucas

The Almighty God, in His infinite and compassionate wisdom, took Grace Andrews Lucas home to her eternal rest on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 after a blessed, long and wonderful journey. Grace was the 2nd child out of 3 born to Eddie and Roxie Andrews in Asheville North Carolina on October 18,1928, however, Oct 11th, was the celebrated day. She was the last surviving member of her immediate family. She left North Carolina in her early twenties and moved to Philadelphia, Pa. where she began working for Coyne Industrial Service. During her employment she held several responsible positions leading to bookkeeper and office manager until her retirement at age 80. Grace had a bubbly personality, strength of her convictions and a high energy level. Her circle of influence extended well beyond her immediate family because she had a way of making everyone she met feel loved and special. On November 17,1968 she married James Lucas and they lived in Philadelphia then relocated to their current home in Atco, New Jersey. Jimmy and “Bun” as he affectionately called Grace, had a long, loving relationship enjoying many activities together. They loved cruising internationally and touring in their motor home visiting several states. Grace and Jimmy were active members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Medford Ward, teaching Sunday school for many years. Grace worked in the church library, and was involved in many Callings (committees) and organizations in the church. “She was always enthusiastic and helpful in anything she did” remembers one church member. She influenced a lot of young girls’ lives’ ages 12 to 16 by teaching them to sew and cook. Grace was a loved member of the Medford Ward. She cherished her family and always found time to provide a supportive helping hand. Her daughter Carole and grandson Kyle were her pride and joy. They were a very close family that shared mutual respect and admiration for each other. Carole viewed Mom as a role model. They had many common interests but the one that brought great joy was gardening. Each year the two of them planted colorful spring & summer flowers that added a beautiful border around Grace’s home. Grandson Kyle admired his grandmother’s ability to always bring out the best in everyone in her immediate family. He viewed her as the “glue” of their family that made them a cohesive unit. Traveling with his grandparents broaden his horizons and created several lasting memories. His very 1st airplane ride with them when vacationing in Puerto Rico is one of those unforgettable moments he cherishes. Grace loved all family gatherings big and small. Weddings, July 4th celebrations or Thanksgiving dinners with “Aunt Grace” were always memorable family occasions Several close friends of Carole also felt Grace’s love and affection. Carole’s lifelong friend Robert who she considers a “play brother” lived in the same neighborhood where she grew up. After a unique bond developed between their families, Grace cheerfully treated Robert as her adopted son. Carole also has a small circle of childhood girlfriends that Grace regarded as her “other daughters.” Carole’s friends and their mothers routinely celebrated special occasions together like Mother’s Day. Along with her “other daughters” and “adopted son” Grace also had a very close relationship with an extended like family. “Mom Grace,” as she was called by Marc and his family, was respected as if she was a beloved elder in their very own family. Invitations were always extended to Grace to participate in joyous events large or small. Additionally, Marc and family were always ready to lend a helping hand whenever she needed it. Grace enjoyed cooking and sewing and was very talented at both. Her potato salad and sweet potato pies were in high demand. Sewing, however, was her passion and she was widely known for her creations. The exquisite details of her completed pieces gave each one a professional finish. She gained personal gratification in making prom dresses, wedding dresses and other special occasion outfits. It was a labor of love and a symbol of her affection to all those that received her completed ensembles. Grace’s life work and personal impact will be remembered for many years to come. We will miss her, but are happy that she is no longer in pain. She leaves behind to cherish many loving memories, her husband James, daughter Carole, grandson Kyle, aunt Lucille, special nieces Randy, Suzzette, Kitty and a host of other family members and friends. She is preceded in death by her brother Cleveland Andrews (Mildred), sister Nellie Ruth Andrews and her aunt Ollie Mae Fenner. Sorrowfully submitted, James, Carole and Kyle