Charles Ray Lucas

Charles Ray Lucas, 90 of Astor, passed away Friday, May 3, 2024. Ray was born June 9, 1933 to parents Morton and Mary Lucas at home, at Bluffton, near Astor, Florida. He was a devoted husband for 61 years to Laura Lou Lucas. Loving Father to Raymond, Susan, Curtis, Linda and the most doting grandfather to 11 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Ray attended Umatilla High School where he excelled as an athlete. After graduation he began his college years when he attended Florida State University in Tallahassee for one year then he transferred and finished his education at Stetson where he earned his Degree in education and a Masters in Administration. He then resided in Umatilla with his family and served as a teacher and principal at Altoona Elementary School and principal at Southside Elementary in Umatilla. He ended his administrative career as Assistant Principal at Umatilla High School. After his career in education ended, he moved his family to Astor Florida on the St. John’s River to work and eventually became the owner of Hall’s Lodge where he spent the remainder of his working years. He enjoyed his days with family and friends telling stories about life and spending time on the river. He was an active member of the Astor Baptist church where he served the church in many capacities for most of his life as a Teacher and Deacon. He was saved and baptized in 1948 at the age of 15 by Dr Earl Joiner who was the Pastor of the mission church in Astor that was sponsored by First Baptist of Deland. He served his community as a board member for the Astor Water Association for many years. During this time, he was instrumental in the development of the first sewer system project for the Astor Community. He is survived by his brother Gerald Lucas; son Raymond (Debbie) Lucas, Altoona FL; daughter, Susan Saul, Astor, FL; son Curtis (Betty) Lucas, Astor, FL; daughter, Linda (Ralf) Ziegler, St Martin, Germany; 11 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews. Ray was preceded in death by his wife, Laura Lou Lucas; parents, Morton and Mary Lucas; 4 brothers and 5 sisters. Services will be held at First Baptist Church of Astor on Thursday, May 9th. Visitation begins at 10:00am and the service will begin at 11:00am. He will be laid to rest at Lakeside Memory Garden in Eustis immediately following. There will be a meal provided for all friends and family after the graveside service at First Baptist of Astor Family Life Center. Memorial donations can be made to First Baptist Church of Astor 24731 Ann St, Astor, FL 32102.

Charles Ray Lucas

June 9, 1933 - May 3, 2024