Lamona Hall Lucas, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend and mentor to many, died peacefully surrounded by her family on April 18,2024. Lamona was born in Troy, AL to the late Lamon and Vera Mae Hall. She was a cheerleader at Troy High School when she met Melvin who played football for Troy State Teachers College. After their marriage, Lamona subsequently graduated from Peabody and University of South Alabama.
Her survivors include her husband and best friend, Melvin, to whom she was married 72 years. Her daughters, Dawn (Mike) Herrin and Deb Spear. Her grandchildren: Lucas, Zachary (Caroline) and Sam Spear and Chase (Lisa) and Christopher Herrin. Great grandchildren: Henry and Charlotte Spear and Charlie and Ritt Herrin.
Lamona taught at Charles Henderson High School in Troy, AL prior to her family move to Mobile in 1964 when her husband became the first Athletic Director at the University of South Alabama. Lamona earned her M.S. degree from USA and became the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor at Rotary Rehabilitation Hospital. From there, she became the Director of RRH and then to assume the role of Director of Alabama Department of Rehab Services. In 1994, she became the first Commissioner of the Department of Rehabilitation Services for Alabama, which she held until her retirement in 1999. Her visionary skills led her to lead Foundations in Mobile (Arthritis and Lung) as well as establishing new programs within the State of Alabama (Miss Wheelchair, Traumatic Brain Injury Task Force and Wheelchair Basketball). Her bright spirit and artistic eye led many organizations to form leadership positions for many citizens with disabilities.
During her tenure as Director, she was called upon to assist in the writing of Americans Disability Act of 1990. This was a source of much pride for her and for ADRS. She was in the Rose Garden when it was officially signed into law.
Shortly after their move from Troy to Mobile, she and Melvin bought a house on Dauphin Island, which soon became their place for escape, rejuvenation and joy. When Hurricane Fredrick destroyed that home, the “Déjà Vu” was soon built, providing more room and more opportunities for larger gatherings.
Lamona loved the water…whether shrimping, skiing or floating, she made the most of every opportunity offered. That was indicative of Lamona, whose zest for life was extended to all within her outreach. Her innovations within ADRS continue through those she led, mentored and inspired.
After retirement, she enthusiastically entered community life on Dauphin Island. She enjoyed getting to know the Islanders and visitors through the Visitation Center. She became more engaged with the St. Francis Episcopal Church and studied to become one of the Daughters of the King there. That was a commitment that Lamona valued highly. She and Mel annually became Snow Birds in Islamorda, FL where Lamona spent many hours returning to her first love of painting scenery
A celebration of life will be held at St Francis Episcopal Church on Dauphin Island Wednesday, May 1st at 11 o'clock.
