Sue, born Sue Ann Kirk on January 3, 1946, in Malden, West Virginia, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord on February 21, 2026, at the age of 80.
Sue was a woman whose life overflowed with faith, music, and a joyful spirit. She was the devoted daughter of the late Huey Kirk and Dorothy Buckley, both of Malden, and she carried their values of family and kindness throughout her days.
She shared many years with her husband, William Arbeth “Arbie” or “Bill” Lucas, who predeceased her. Together, they co-founded the gospel groups The Heavenly Messengers and Messengers for Christ, pouring their hearts into singing the Lord’s word. They traveled across churches, revivals, and festivals, sharing joy and hope through song. Their voices and spirits touched countless lives, and those melodies still echo in the hearts of all who knew them.
Sue was 1963 graduate of DuPont High School where she was a member of the marching band. Sue cherished simple joys: camping under the stars with Bill and dear friends, creating memories around campfires and in the great outdoors. Her home was always brightened by the playful presence of her miniature poodles, Precious and Izzy, who were her constant companions and great loves—both now waiting to greet her again.
Sue started her adult working life at the Diamond Department Store and then transitioned into becoming a dedicated professional, working faithfully at C&P Telephone (Bell Atlantic) which we all know as Frontier now, in Charleston, West Virginia, until her well-deserved retirement. She served on the Board of Directors of Cha-Tel Federal Credit Union for many years, a strong member of the Communications Workers of America and to the day of her passing, a proud member of the Telephone Pioneers of America.
Sue is survived by her cherished daughter, Kimberly Lucas of Rand; her son, W. Scott Lucas (Niki) of Malden; and her grandchildren: Brittannie Starcher (Tyler) of Jackson County, Nickolas Miller (Sarah) of Charleston, Zachary Hall and Jeremy Hall of Florence, SC, Madelynn Garcia (Gian) of Knoxville, TN, Jacob Lucas (Sara) of Nitro, Katelyn Lucas (Jake) of Teays Valley, Mallory Jenkins (Hunter) of Dunbar, MariAnna Lucas (Sheldon) of Big Chimney, along with Harmony Lucas and Marleigh Lucas of Malden. She was blessed to welcome 13 great-grandchildren.
In her later years, Sue was lovingly cared for by her son Scott, his wife Niki, and especially her granddaughter Mallory Jenkins, who provided devoted care five days a week for the last 18 months of her life. Their constant presence, compassion, and tireless support brought her great comfort and peace during that time.
The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Kanawha Hospice staff and the Hubbard Hospice House staff of Charleston, West Virginia, for the exceptional, compassionate care they provided to both Sue and Bill in their final days.
Arrangements are being handled by Hafer Funeral Home, 50 N. Pinch Rd., Elkview, WV.
There will be no memorial service or funeral held at this time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in both Sue’s and Bill’s memory to Hubbard Hospice House of Charleston, WV.
Sue’s life was a testament to her faith, her love of music, and the friendships she nurtured along the way. She will be deeply missed, but her light continues to shine through every song sung in praise, every memory of camping adventures, and every heart she touched with her gentle love.
Rest in Peace, Mom – we love you always
