Barbara McIver Lucas

Barbara Mciver Lucas was born Barbara Mclver Harris on August 23rd, 1928, to the late Albert and Sadie Harris in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was the eldest of two daughters from this union. Her younger sister, Gladys Harris-Lewis, preceded her in death. Barbara was also the elder sister of two brothers, Albert Harris Jr. and Raymond Harris. She was educated in the Philadelphia public school system. Barbara's spiritual life began in St. James A.M.E. Zion Church under the founder and leadership of Rev. James E. Dennis. While family and work initially limited Barbara's church engagement, she was blessed to increase her church involvement at St. James AME Zion Church under the leadership of Rev. Arron Hoggard, later being pastored by Rev. Richmond. She remained connected to the church body throughout her life, ending with being a member of the merger between St. James and James Varick A.M.E. Zion Churches, now known as James Varick AME Zion Church. Barbara accepted Christ and was baptized at Wesley A.M.E. Zion Church. Barbara became a proud member of the St. James Usher Board in 1986. She served the church as a Trustee and Missionary Body President. She also served as Pastor's Stewart to Rev. Snead, Rev. Broussard, Rev. Haywood McLeod, and Rev. James Simmons. Barbara served under Rev. Michael A. King and Elder Rev. John Kenndey, where she became a member of the church's Daughters of Mariam Praise Dance Worshippers. At the time of her passing, she was under the leadership of Rev. Damon N. Carver and serving as an emeritus member of The Daughters of Mariam Praise Dance Worshippers. Of all the positions she ever held, her most precious position was being a Keeper of The Door. Barbara became employed in the garment industry in 1964, working at The Alfred Angelo Bridal Gown Factory. She was known for her special ability to hand fold and package delicate and expensive bridal gowns so that no wrinkles were visible when delivered. She was a member of the National Ladies Garment Workers Union. After two years, she was elected to serve on Local 218 as secretary. In 1989, Barbara was elected to serve on the Union's Board of Directors, and again was elected as secretary due to her exceptional ability to record and report meeting minutes. She proudly held these positions until her retirement in 1993. In 1994, Barbara decided to return to work at the age of 66, becoming employed at The University of Pennsylvania's Hill House Dining Hall. After three years of service, she was elected Unit Leader, holding the position until she retired from that position in 2009 at the age of 80 years old. Barbara was also an excellent planner and events organizer. She was a key member of the ladies social clubs, The Diamondettes and The Royalettes. Barbara planned semi-annual family trips and her home was the place for friendly card games. She was an avid Pinochle and Bid Whist player. Barbara married the late Robert B. Lucas who preceded her in death. She was the mother of six children. Her son Robert (Uncle Bob) and daughters Geraldine (Gerry) and Rudina (Dina) preceded her in death as well. Six grandchildren and four great grandchildren also have preceded her in death. Barbara leaves to mourn her passing, daughters Sandra Harris-Edwards, Barbara (Munirah/Bunny) Best, and Shahadah (Charlene) Lucas-Curtis. She leaves 20 grandchildren, and three generations of great grandchildren. Also left to cherish her memory are Barbara's nieces, Mary Suber and Rebecca Brooks, and nephews, Paul Lewis Jr. and Kyle Lacy. Among the in-laws close to Barbara who will miss her deeply are Derrick Books, Jihad McGlonn, Aubrey Hagler, and Omar Jefferson-Nelson. A host of cousins, friends, and others who were and are a part of her life are also left to fondly remember Barbara.