Ellen Miller Lucas

Ellen Miller Lucas, 66, entered into eternal rest on February 12, 2016. She passed away peacefully at home in Richmond, surrounded by her loving family. Ellen was preceded in death by her parents, Lewis Warren Miller, Margaret Becker Greever, and a beloved step-father, John Harvey Greever.

Born in Wythe County in beautiful Southwest Virginia, Ellen was a graduate of Rural Retreat High School where she was both Homecoming Queen and head majorette. In 1971, she received her Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing from the Medical College of Virginia. For 44 years she worked alongside her husband in the practice of family medicine. From 72-75 Ellen served as a civilian nurse with the Army Medical Corps in the 3rd Infantry Division at Aschaffenburg, Germany. From 77-86, she took a break from full-time nursing to raise her children, yet continued to work on a part time basis in her husband’s practice in Rocky Mount, VA. In 1986, the family moved to Richmond and both Ellen and her husband became employed by Patient First. For twenty five years, she worked at her husband’s side as Director of Medical Support at Patient First’s , N. Parham Rd office. Her husband loved the working relationship, as at least at work, he was technically in charge.

Ellen’s hint of a lovely SW Va accent would melt your heart. Her energy made the Energizer Bunny look slothful, and her smile made the sun seem dim. She loved to cook, loved to travel, loved to dance, and loved athletics.

Ellen was born into a family of Hokie grads and sympathizers. She was the proud mother of two Virginia Tech grads. Early in her marriage, however, she was brought into the light and became an avid supporter of the University of Virginia Cavaliers. Her tailgates at Scott Stadium, co- hosted in later years by dear friends, Carol Basham and Carol Polly, were legendary for the hospitality, great food and every increasing number of attendees. She was a rabid basketball fan, and for years first at U Hall and most recently at JPJ, served from the stands as both assistant coach and referee critic. With the arrival of coach Tony Bennett, Ellen’s coaching duties have been far less onerous. However, at the time of her passing, she remained convinced that the officials still needed her help.

Ellen is survived by her adoring husband, Dr. Kenneth Lucas, Jr. She was particularly proud and devoted to her children and grandchildren-Dr. Kenny Lucas III, DVM of Richmond (wife, Becky and children, Marlise and Wilson), Lee and Ashley Wilson of Mebane, NC (Angela, Ben, and ten week old Caleb), and Michael Lucas of Los Angeles, CA.

Ellen was a member of All Saints Episcopal Church. The family is indebted to Rev. Brent Melton and Rev. Judy Davis for their spiritual support through this difficult journey. We also wish to thank Lucy Gunn and Jackie Womble for their comfort and care in the Healing Ministry at All Saints.

Ellen received superb medical care during her illness. We particularly wish to thank Dr. David Trent and the very devoted staff of Virginia Cancer Institute for their wonderful care.

A celebration of Ellen’s life will be held at All Saints on Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at 1 PM. In honor of Ellen’s zest for life the family requests that celebrants wear something colorful. Red is her favorite color. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be sent to the VCU School of Nursing, the American Cancer Society, Gentiva Hospice, or any worthy charity of your choice.