Charlotte Louise Lucas

Charlotte Louise Lucas (Katich) born January 19, 1933, in Phoenix Arizona, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2025, at 92 years old. Charlotte was an Arizona native living in Phoenix before moving to Scottsdale in 1945. She was married to Don Lucas in 1949 for 55 years before preceding her in death in 2004. Charlotte attended Scottsdale High School. She worked for Arizona Public Service for 30 years before retiring in 1991. Charlotte possessed an extraordinary passion for life and nature matched only by her love of a wonderful family and friends. Charlotte is survived by her four children and their spouses, sons Rodney Lucas (Rhonda) and Donald Lucas (Diane), daughters Marilyn Chatwood (Mel) and Elizabeth White (Big Jim). Charlotte has four grandchildren, three step-grandchildren, two great granddaughters, one step-great grandson and a great great granddaughter. Charlotte was a compassionate caregiver for many others including Mary Turner, her sister-in-law, whom she and Don raised as their own daughter. Her love not only encompassed immediate family but a large extended family as well. Additionally, Charlotte loved her animal friends sneaking dinner morsels under the table, welcoming the neighborhood cat, and throwing seed for the birds. Charlotte’s many hobbies including gardening, hunting, fishing, and camping reflected her zest for life and nature. Her front and backyards were the brightest shade of green on the street. An avid antique shopper, Charlotte had a knack for finding treasures and giving them a home to be proudly displayed. She loved to go on backroad rides to scout for wildlife, not returning until clear of being “skunked”. Charlotte and Don spent much of their time with family and friends at their high-country cabin in Christopher Creek. Cherished memories at the cabin were made by many. Charlotte’s life is a testament of her kindness, generosity, and wisdom. She was the heart of many family gatherings. Her unapologetic self was going to be a surprise that either had you laughing, crying, or listening with respect. Though Charlotte’s journey on Earth has ended, her legacy remains in the hearts of those who knew her and future stories to be told. We remember Charlotte not with sadness, but with joy for the life she shared with us. Having lived life to the fullest, Charlotte unwaveringly stated, “If I die today, I will have loved my life”. May Charlotte be a reminder for us all to see life on Earth as beautiful as she did.