Audrey Marguerite Lucas

Audrey Marguerite Lucas was a woman whose life was woven into the very fabric of Ann Arbor—a “West Side” matriarch, bridge-builder, and keeper of stories. She passed away peacefully on Friday, April 3, 2026, at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy as vibrant as the “church hats” she famously wore.

Born August 24, 1934, in Connersville, Indiana, Audrey was the daughter of Benjamin Franklin and Bertha Belle (Leftridge) Sleet. In September 1941, the Sleet family moved to Ann Arbor in search of opportunity, a decision her father would later recall fondly by saying that Indiana was “a good place to be from.” Audrey’s childhood was shaped by the close-knit community surrounding Jones School, where she attended from third through ninth grade, before graduating from Ann Arbor High School.

On Ann Arbor’s West Side, the Sleet family’s lives centered around Second Baptist Church (SBC), which became Audrey’s spiritual home. A devoted member for more than 84 years—the church’s longest-standing congregant—Audrey served in countless capacities, including Church Clerk for over 50 years, member of the Executive Committee, and Church Administrator for five years. Her steadfast presence made her both a pillar and a historian of her beloved congregation.

Audrey’s professional journey was equally remarkable. Over a 47-year career at the University of Michigan Medical Center, she rose from elevator operator and surgical technician to Human Resources Consultant. She became known as a “gatekeeper” who opened doors for others, particularly Black students and staff. True to her no-nonsense style, she often reminded them: “I can help you get this job, but I can’t keep it for you.”

In 2000, her impact was formally recognized when she was granted emeritus status—an honor bestowed upon only two staff members in the University’s history. Her distinguished career was marked by honors such as the Career Service Award from the Association for Black Professionals, Administrators, Faculty, and Students, and her name lives on through an annual Human Resources award given to a hardworking and dedicated HR staff member. In retirement, Audrey continued to serve her community by volunteering with the Turner African American Services Council (TAASC) Force.

Beyond her professional and church life, Audrey was deeply devoted to community and connection. She was a founding member of the Old Neighborhood Reunion Committee—an initiative started in 1993 out of a wish to see childhood friends “at happy times, not just funerals.”

Music was another of Audrey’s gifts. A talented singer, she performed as a soloist at church and as a member of several singing groups, most notably The Robins. Though she joked that she “didn’t get to Motown,” her voice was indeed a source of light and joy for her community.

Audrey was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Tony Sleet; her brother, Richard “Dick” Sleet; and her former husband, Robert Gene Lucas, with whom she remained lifelong friends. She is survived by her children, Kevin and Robyn Lucas; brothers Phillip (Viola) Sleet and Grant (Katherine) Sleet; her longest dearest friend, Ms. Jeanne Collins; and a large extended family of nieces, nephews, church members, and friends who cherished her.

A visitation will be held at Second Baptist Church of Ann Arbor on Friday, April 10, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a Moment of Reflections from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. The Homegoing Service, led by Pastor Steven J. Daniels, Sr., will take place on Saturday, April 11 at Second Baptist Church, with a Family Hour at 10:00 a.m. and Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m.

In honor of Audrey’s signature style, attendees are encouraged to wear green, her favorite color, and for the ladies—your finest church hats—in tribute to her grace and spirit.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Second Baptist Church of Ann Arbor – Project 850.