Juanita Francis Lucas

In Loving Memory of Juanita Reid Lucas

Juanita Francis Reid Lucas was born to Harvey Reid Sr. and Geneva Evans Reid on February 23, 1930 in Fayetteville, North Carolina. The fourth of six children, she grew up in a closely-knit family whose members always cared for one another. Her family tended a small farm, growing food for themselves and cash crops for the market. It was there that Juanita developed her lifelong love of gardening. She kept a garden for as long as her health allowed and delighted in both indoor and outdoor plants. Her family fondly remembers that if she admired a plant that she did not have, she could often persuade its owner to give her either the plant or a clipping so she could grow one of her own.
Juanita proudly graduated from Anne Chestnut High School in Fayetteville. She attended North Carolina A&T University until an illness brought her back home. She later completed her college education at Fayetteville State University, earning a degree in elementary education. Juanita was united in marriage to Aaron L. Lucas on December 27, 1953. She began her teaching career at Upchurch High School in Raeford, North Carolina. She finished her teaching career at Lowell Elementary School in St. Louis after teaching there for over 30 years.
North Carolina always held a special place in our mother's heart. After relocating to St. Louis, she returned to Fayetteville each summer to help her sister Sarah care for their father, Aunt Estelle, and Miss Bea. Even after these family members passed, mom continued her annual visits. She eagerly looked forward to each family reunion where she enjoyed spending time with her extended family and catching up with her nieces and nephews.
On September 2, 2026, Juanita Reid Lucas received her heavenly wings and was reunited with her husband Aaron, and her firstborn son Rodney. Being the last offspring of Harvey and Geneva, her passing marks the end of a generation, a void that cannot be filled. Among those who will cherish her memory are: her daughter, Brenda; her son, Donovan; her grandson, Lavonte; her best friend, Robert S. Lee; and her many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. Although Juanita has transitioned from earth to glory, her love, warmth, and cherished memory will remain in the hearts of her family and friends forever. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

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