Jeanne Franklin Lucas

Jeanne Franklin Lucas died December 18, 2010 in Groves, Texas after a lengthy illness. She was born in Honey Grove, Texas on January 8, 1927 to L.U. and Buena Franklin. She was a 1945 graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School in Port Arthur and received her Bachelor of Arts from North Texas State University, majoring in Art and Education. She worked at the Texaco Refinery until her marriage to Thomas B. (Tom) Lucas, Jr. on August 4, 1951 at the Methodist Temple in Port Arthur. Jeanne was a gifted and talented artist, specializing in stained glass works. Her paintings adorned the entrance hall to the former St. George's Episcopal Church in Port Arthur and were a blessing to all who entered the doors. Her work was featured in newspaper articles in the local area and was often sold through commercial dealers. Her stained glass art was often produced on commission for private individuals. Jeanne's artwork was an outward and visible sign of her inward kindness, beauty, and strength of spirit. Throughout her illness, her family was sustained and inspired by the courage and love of her husband, Tom. His love loyalty, and dedication was unfailing over the long course of her illness. Jeanne is survived by her husband of 59 years, Thomas B. Lucas, Jr., and a sister, Martha Sue Martin of Sugar Land, Texas. She is also survived by her daughter, Susan Murphy and son-in-law, Michael Murphy of McLean, Virginia, and her sons, Tommy Lucas of Fort Worth, Texas and Les Lucas of Groves, Texas, as well as six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Her entire family will miss her deeply, as will her host of friends. A memorial service will be held at 2:00p.m., Thursday, December 23, 2010 at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, 2425 Nall Street in Port Neches, Texas. Visitation will be before the service at the Church, beginning at 12:00p.m. In lieu of flowers, her family requests that donations be sent to Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, the Port Arthur Founders Lions Club Project Fund, or the charity of one's choosing.