Ernest Lucas Obituary

Ernest Eugene "Geno" Lucas

February 14, 1952 -

August 12, 2025

KINGSPORT - Ernest Eugene "Geno" Lucas, 73, of Kingsport, entered peacefully into the loving arms of his Savior on August 12th, 2025, at home and surrounded by his devoted family, following an 18-month journey with cancer. Throughout his illness, Gene faced each day with courage, grace, and the steadfast love of those dearest to him.

Born on Valentine's Day, February 14, 1952, to the late Ernest and Margaret (Sweeney) Lucas, Gene's life was marked by his generous heart, warm smile, and gift for making every person feel like an old friend. His trademark phrase, "Right there," was just one of many ways he brought joy to those around him. Known for never meeting a stranger, Gene lived with a spirit of kindness and generosity that touched countless lives.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Margaret (Sweeny) Lucas, grandparents, Logan and Lillie Sweeney and Roy and Clyde Lucas.

For 54 years, Gene was devoted to his beloved wife, Marie. Their marriage was a true partnership - a beautiful example of love, loyalty, humor, and care. Marie stood faithfully by his side through every season, from sharing his love of golf and westerns to caring for him with tenderness during his illness.

He was a proud and loving father to his children, Tonya Adkins (husband Jeff) and Travis Lucas (wife Michelle), who carry forward his humor, wisdom, and work ethic. Being a grandfather was a cherished role, and he poured his heart into his four grandchildren: Dr. Hope Marie Adkins, Lucas Adkins (wife Alli), Brie Lucas, and Bailee Lucas. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy Dorton (Jerry); nieces Karen Davidson (Randall) and Vickie Gillenwater (Chris); Aunt Tommie Presley (Doug); and Deana Nickels. Gene treasured many special cousins, including frequent phone conversations with Desa Nickels, and lifelong friendships with Roger Perry and Ricky Begley, who will honor him by preaching his funeral.

A lifelong outdoorsman, Gene found joy in God's creation - fishing, hunting, golfing, and playing baseball. In his younger years, he was exceptionally skilled at every sport he played, but it was his golf game that was a particular source of joy. Whether playing weekly rounds or enjoying beach golf trips with his "golfing buddies," Gene brought the same competitive spirit and easy laughter that made him a favorite teammate and friend. Off the course, he enjoyed cheering on the University of Tennessee and rooting for the Atlanta Braves, and he took even greater pride in watching his grandchildren excel in their own sports and passions. Sharing that passion with them- whether from the stands or on the sidelines- was one of his greatest joys.

Gene lived a life of service. He volunteered with Meals on Wheels, gave generously of his time and talents, and faithfully served at Oak Grove Baptist Church as an usher and member of the security team until his diagnosis. He was proud to have served his country for six years in the Army National Guard 1033rd Transportation Unit. Professionally, Gene devoted 35 years to Eastman Chemical Company in the CE Division before retirement. He soon found himself working five years at Gate City Funeral Home and another five at BAE Systems as a chemical operator, proving he was far better at working than he was at retiring.

The family is profoundly grateful for the extraordinary kindness and compassion shown throughout this journey. With heartfelt appreciation, we thank Jennifer Compton, PA, and her devoted staff; Missy Littleton and the Meadowview Outpatient Diagnostic team; the gentle and skilled caregivers at the Ballad Health Cancer Center, including the expert care of Dr. Yonette Paul and the entire cancer specialist team; the Amedisys Hospice Team, especially the gifted and tender-hearted nurses Paige Thorton and Malika Richardson; and our dear neighbors and friends whose love, prayers, and constant support have been a true blessing.

Pallbearers will be members of Gene's family and close friends. His golfing buddies- with whom he shared countless years of laughter, friendly competition, and true camaraderie-will serve as honorary pallbearers.

Gene's life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and generosity- "right there" in every story, smile, and act of service. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and compassion that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Throughout his journey, Gene faced life's challenges with incredible courage and grace. In honor of his memory and in support of others facing similar battles, the family invites those who wish to make a contribution to consider donating to the LUNGevity Foundation, an organization dedicated to improving outcomes for people with lung cancer through research, education, and support. Donations can be made online at https://www.lungevity.org or mailed to:

LUNGevity Foundation, PO Box 754, Chicago, IL 60690

Family will receive friends from 5-7 pm at Gate City Funeral Home, services will be conducted at 7:00 pm in the Gene Falin Memorial Chapel, with Pastor Ricky Begley officiating. His eulogy will be given by his granddaughter Dr. Hope Marie Adkins. Lighthouse will provide the music.

The Military Graveside Service will follow on Saturday, August 16th at 2:00 pm at Holston View Cemetery in Weber City conducted by the American Legion Hammond Post #3, Kingsport, TN and Post 265 Gate City, VA assisted by members of the Virginia National Army Guard Funeral Honors Team.

Family and friends are asked to meet at the funeral home at 1:15 pm to go in procession to the graveside service.

Online guest registry is available at www.gatecityfunerals.com

Gate City Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of Ernest Eugene "Geno" Lucas.