Lucas, Joseph Richard

Dr. Joseph Richard Lucas, 77, of Blacksburg, passed away at home with his family, on Thursday morning, February 15, 2007.

He was a devoted husband, father, friend and teacher. He was born and raised in southwestern Pennsylvania, was educated at Waynesburg College, University of Pittsburg, and Columbia University. He taught at Ohio State University before moving to Blacksburg.

Dr. Lucas was a member of the Christ Episcopal Church and Chairman of the Mining and Minerals Engineering Department at Virginia Tech. He received numerous awards in his field, including Honorary Kentucky Colonel, the Kingery Award for Outstanding Life Achievement in the Coal Industry, a Massey Foundation Professor, and a member of the Paul Stewart Society at Waynesburg College. Teaching Excellence Awards are given in his name at Waynesburg College. A student scholarship is giving in his name at Virginia Tech.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife Joan Hathaway Lucas. He is survived by his sons, Eric and Jay Lucas; daughters-in-law, Deanne and Charlotte Lucas; grandchildren, Lisa, Matthew, Sarah and Rachel Lucas.

A memorial service will be conducted at 1:30 p.m., Sunday, February 18, 2007, at Christ Episcopal Church in Blacksburg. The family will receive friends in the Canterbury Fellowship Hall at the church immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Carilion Hospice Services of the New River Valley, Waynesburg College, or Christ Episcopal Church. Arrangements by John M. Oakey & Son Salem Funeral Home, 389-5441. Online condolences may be made at www.johnmoakey.com.