William Lewis Lucas Jr.

William “Bill” Lewis Lucas Jr. peacefully entered into eternal rest and was welcomed into the loving arms of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on June 10th, 2026, just 10 days before his 91st birthday. Waiting patiently at Heaven's gate was his beloved wife, Angela “Angie”, who was called home nearly 49 years ago.

Bill was born in Charleston, West Virginia, on June 20, 1935, to William Lewis Lucas Sr. and Mabel Orilla Hill Lucas. He graduated from Dunbar High School in 1953 and attended West Virginia State College. One of the greatest chapters of Bill’s life was Valleybrook School in Falls Church, Virginia—the school he and his wife, Angie, purchased and poured their hearts into during their years together. After Angie’s passing, Bill continued that work for many years, carrying forward the vision and values they had built together. As owners of Educational Institutions Inc. and principal directors of Valleybrook, Bill and Angie built more than a school; they created a place where children felt welcomed, encouraged, and inspired to learn. Families traveled great distances because they believed Valleybrook was a special place for their children. Bill was intentional about every detail, from hiring the perfect staff to creating memorable traditions and events that made childhood special, including pony, clown car, and go-kart rides, visits from Benny the Clown, and visits from the local fire department. Every Halloween, Bill delighted the children by dressing as a clown, and during the years Angie was by his side, she joined him dressed up as a witch. Together, they led a beloved Halloween parade through the neighborhood surrounding Valleybrook, filling the community with laughter and joy.

Each morning, Bill stood in the circular driveway to greet every child as they arrived, making them feel seen, valued, and excited to begin their day. Even when he did not always remember a parent's name, he warmly greeted them with, “Good morning, Mom! Good morning, Dad!” The children looked forward to coming to school every day because of the love, joy, and sense of belonging he helped create. A framed picture hanging above the water fountain at Valleybrook captured the heart of his philosophy: “My day is complete. I heard a child laugh.”

Through his thoughtful leadership, unwavering dedication, and genuine love for every student who walked through its doors, Bill left a lasting imprint on countless lives and created a legacy that extended far beyond the classroom.

Some of Bill's greatest joys were found in the simple things. His passion was cars, and he could spend hours working on them. He loved studying the Bible and listening to his favorite records, enjoying the timeless voices of Elvis Presley, Engelbert Humperdinck, Jerry Vale, Barbra Streisand, and the Bill Gaither station on Pandora. He never passed up a good Western, especially The Rifleman, loved watching car shows and Highway to Heaven, and cherished classic films like Till the Clouds Roll By, For the First Time, The Sound of Music, and The Notebook. His favorite songs, including "How Great Thou Art," "A Summer Place," "All Time High," and the theme from The Love Boat, were the soundtrack to a life well lived.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Angela Accurso Lucas; his sister, Nancy K. Guthrie; and his brother, Ronald C. Lucas.

Bill is survived by his sons, William Lewis Lucas III (Lois) of Charleston, WV, Brett Joseph Lucas (Wendy) of Centreville, VA; his devoted daughter, Connie Jo Lucas of Jacksonville, FL; and Connie’s goddaughter, Zoe C. Lindquist, also of Jacksonville, FL. Connie and Zoe faithfully, lovingly, and tirelessly cared for Bill at home during the final 6 years of his earthly life. Bill is also survived by 6 grandchildren: Bethany and Adam of Charleston, West Virginia, and Kylie, Christian, Sean, and Sienna of Centreville, VA; 4 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great-grandchildren. In addition, Bill is survived by his sisters-in-law, Margaret “Peggy” Accurso, Margaret Morales (Rene), and Ellen Accurso, all of St. Augustine, FL, as well as Connie L. Lucas of Charleston, WV. He is also survived by several dear nieces and nephews, many of whom affectionately referred to him as “Unc.”

More than anything, Bill will be remembered for the way he loved. He was generous beyond measure, always willing to give his time, lend a helping hand, or share what he had with others. He met life's greatest challenges with unwavering determination, raising two of his children on his own after losing the love of his life, all while remaining hardworking, positive, and full of wit. His infectious smile, unmistakable strawberry-blonde hair, striking good looks, and stubborn spirit were simply part of what made him so uniquely himself. Above all, his faith in the Lord was the foundation of his life. His words, "Praise the Lord" and "Thank you, Jesus," were more than sayings—they were the gratitude and hope by which he lived. While our hearts ache in his absence, we find peace knowing he has been welcomed into the arms of his Savior. Until we meet again, we will carry his love, his laughter, and his unwavering faith with us always. Praise the Lord, and Thank You, Jesus - for Bill Lucas.