Barbara Wiley Lucas

She was born on June 24, 1927, to Simon R. Wiley and Lillie G Puryear Wiley in Clarksville, VA. Barbara graduated from Longwood College and began teaching biology in Emporia, Va where she met the love of her life, John Lucas. They married and moved to Winston-Salem, NC where John worked at Western Electric. She continued to teach while raising her family. In 1973 John’s job transfer brought the family to Midlothian, VA.

Barbara and John were active at Salisbury Presbyterian Church where Barbara taught Sunday School and served on several church committees for many years. She also was an active member of the Richmond PEO Chapter and served for 30 years as a volunteer at Johnston-Willis Hospital. Barbara worked with the Soup Kitchen Program in Richmond and served on several mission trips to Appalachia well into her 80s. She loved playing bridge with her friends and spending time at the beach. An avid traveler, she explored Europe, Central America, and the Middle East.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, John Finley Lucas; and her siblings Betsy Wiley York (Shelley), Herbert Wiley (Eleanor), Margaret Wiley Britt (Burney) and James Edward Wiley.

She is survived by her sons John F. Lucas Jr. (Mary), William A. Lucas (Sandy), and Chapman W. Lucas (Kris) and Karen C. Bonner (Mike) who she loved as a daughter. Barbara also is survived by her six grandchildren, John F. Lucas III (Jesseca), Katherine E. Lucas, William A. Lucas Jr. (Beatrice), Ryan D. Lucas (Anna), William K. Lucas, Chapman W. Lucas, Jr.; and her great-grandchildren, Lana C. Lucas, John F. Lucas IV, Lillie J. Lucas, Adam D. Lucas, and Henry A. Lucas.

Barbara was the best wife, mom, mema, friend, and teacher. She had a wonderful, rich life.

The family will receive friends at Woody’s Funeral Home on Huguenot Road on Saturday, September 28, 2024, from 10:00 to 11:00am. Visitation will be followed by a graveside service for the family at Greenwood Cemetery’s Field of Honor.