John Robert Lucas, 80, passed away, Monday, January 19, 2026.  Born March 22, 1945, he lived in the Groton, New York area for 60 years before relocating to Virginia to be closer to family.

John is survived by Leah, his wife of 56 years; sons, Andy Lucas (Dawn) of Albemarle, North Carolina and Matt Lucas (Amy) of Marriottsville, Maryland.  He will be greatly missed by his six (6) grandchildren (Johnathan Paul (JP), Jake, Joshua, Julia, Isabelle and Grace). He is also
survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, grandnephews and friends.

John was a proud member of the United States Army and a Vietnam veteran.  He started his career with "Ma Bell" working first for NY Telephone, then NYNEX, Bell Atlantic, and finally retiring from Verizon after 32 years of service.

John loved his family dearly as well as his many loyal dog companions.  He was also a very proud grandfather.  He put many miles on his well-kept vehicles over the years to watch his grandchildren participate in athletic and other school and extracurricular activities.
John loved living in the Shenandoah Valley and meeting new people.  He was always willing to lend a hand to help his neighbors in need.

A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at 11:00 AM at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church located at 301 Sheppard Court, Waynesboro, Virginia.  A graveside prayer service will be held at a future date in Groton, New York.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Augusta County Fire & Rescue Inc., PO Box 590, Verona, Virginia
24482 or to your local American Legion Post.