Joseph Clarence Lucas' Obituary
It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we announce the passing of Joseph Clarence Lucas, a cherished family member, friend, and lifelong firefighter. His passing took place on December 6, 2023, at the age of 86, at his home in La Plata, Maryland.
Joe was born December 15, 1936, in Waldorf, Maryland to the late Clarence Lucas and Dorothy Lucas. He graduated from La Plata High School in 1954 where he was an excellent basketball and baseball player. After graduating he enlisted in the United States Air Force and served as a firefighter. While stationed in England, one of the highlights of his military career was traveling throughout Europe playing baseball for the Air Force.
Joe was a lifelong firefighter who dedicated his life to his trade and made a positive impact on the lives of those around him. He was known for his leadership and the example he set. His fire career started when he joined the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department where he dedicated over 70 years of service and became a Life Member. Throughout his time in the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department, he held many ranks including Fire Chief from 1967-1969. He was the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department Firefighter of the Year from 1993 to 1994. In 2019, he was inducted into the Southern Maryland Volunteer Fireman’s Association Hall of Fame. Joe always enjoyed going to the firehouse and spending time with the members.
He joined the District of Columbia Fire Department in 1963 where he received many awards and commendations. He retired from the District of Columbia Fire Department in 1989 as a Battalion Chief.
Joe married DaOnne Lucas in 1997 and they enjoyed many years together. He looked forward to completing the Washington Post crossword puzzle every morning. He loved sports and was an avid Washington Redskins and Nationals fan. He enjoyed eating crabs with friends and family, and he never met a pie he did not like. He was well respected, greatly admired and always ready to share his wisdom. Joe will be deeply missed by his family and friends, and will always be remembered for his infectious laughter.
In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 26 years, DaOnne Lucas. Joe is survived by his daughter Julie Lucas (Kenny Colburn) and granddaughter Elizabeth Colburn; his beloved wife’s children Mark Roberts (Bonnie), Kelli Roberts, and Curt Roberts (Leslie); grandchildren Matthew, Tara, Mitchell, Tyler, Krysta, Nicole, Grant, and Opal; nine great-grandchildren and his sister Jean Henderson.
The family would like to express their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. Please join us in remembering and celebrating Joe’s life with the following services:
Visitation and services will be held on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department, 3245 Old Washington Road, Waldorf, Maryland 20602, with Fireman’s Prayers and service at 12:30 p.m. Interment will immediately follow at Trinity Memorial Gardens, 3221 Mattawoman-Beantown Road, Waldorf, Maryland 20601. A celebration of life will immediately follow at the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department. Pallbearers will be members of the Waldorf Volunteer Fire Department.
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