Hazel Mae Lucas, 94, of Hardinsburg Passes Away on September 6, 2022

Hazel Mae Lucas of Hardinsburg passed away peacefully at Breckinridge Memorial Nursing Facility on September 6, 2022 at age 94. A member of Walnut Grove Baptist Church, she enjoyed solving puzzle books and tending her lawn.

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Early Life and Education

Hazel Lucas was born in Mook, Kentucky to Franklin and Elsie Laslie Anthony and raised in a small rural community where she learned values she carried throughout her life. Hazel devoted much of her time and love to family activities such as reading the bible or newspapers as well as attending church services and was known for being an exceptional homemaker.

At the turn of the 20th century, Hazel’s father purchased land under the Homestead Act. They lived in apertures or sod houses constructed out of prairie grass stacked atop each other for shelter from dust pneumonia that was prevalent at that time. Life was challenging.

Hazel was a lifelong resident of Charleston and often said “God created Charleston on the eighth day”. She and her husband Joe enjoyed spending their free time with their children and grandchildren; frequent outings included Folly Beach trips, crab fishing at James Island County Park and exploring Lowcountry towns like Georgetown.

Professional Career

Lucas played at center for Ohio State when they won both of the NCAA titles in 1959 and 1960, becoming one of the youngest members chosen for the 1960 U.S. Olympic team.

Lucas had an opportunity to showcase his incredible rebounding prowess when he joined the Knicks, filling in for Willis Reed – an All-Star center who had injured his knee – who missed time due to injury and posted Hall-of-Fame numbers.

Lucas outpaced Russell and Chamberlain in total rebounding during 1964-65 and earned his first All-Star Team selection, before rising even higher by reaching 20-point, 20-rebound mark the following season and earning All-Star Game MVP honor. Following his basketball career concluded, he became successful at diversifying into other businesses using his mnemonic abilities to develop alphabetizing systems and memory games utilized by students and businesspeople alike.

Achievement and Honors

Hazel Lucas has won multiple awards over her lifetime, such as the Francine W. Frank Award in Linguistics, Agnes Futterer Theatre Award and French Embassy Book Prize. Additionally, she has been an honorary member of Order of Eastern Star for more than sixty years.

She has dedicated her life to serving others and continues to do so today, having served as Girl Scout leader for 19 years and currently being the Vice-President of Terrific New Theatre.

She has also shown great devotion to supporting the arts, donating thousands of dollars to local theatres, museums and galleries in her community. Her legacy will live on forever!

Personal Life

Hazel Lucas had many passions throughout her life. From caring for her home, dancing and sewing projects, and bowling – to her grandchildren calling her “Granny”.

She was also a member of Elks Lodge 242 and Charleston Rifle Club. Known for hosting family gatherings during holidays and celebrations, she had an extensive circle of friends that always made time to gather around her table.

Throughout her later years she was actively engaged with the Lowcountry Senior Center and regularly visited her neighborhood as she walked. Additionally she enjoyed gardening and puzzle books; Charleston held a special place for her as it was created on the eighth day by God! Joe and she enjoyed trips to Folly Beach, crab fishing at Charleston County Park, as well as many other local activities.

Net Worth

Hazel Lucas is a popular YouTube personality who earns an impressive amount from her video content. Additionally, she owns her own business and owns an apartment in Los Angeles. A Christian, Hazel also has Mary Bethea and Barry Lucas as siblings.

Sinister 2 marked her acting debut. Additionally, two scenes from Chicago Fire as Lucas Hicks also feature.

She leaves behind two children; Pastor Royden Airesman married to Linda Wagner of Highspire and Joy Ann married to Lee Fritz both from Somerset; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who will miss her greatly. May Sister Hazel rest in peace! We love and will remember her fondly!