Lerose Paulette Lucas-Rucker

Lerose Paulette Lucas-Rucker, “Sparkle”, born April 15, 1949, to LeRoy and Bernice Lucas. She was a longtime member at Church of Crucifixion.

A native of Jacksonville, Lerose, received her primary and secondary education within the local community. Graduating with the very first graduating class of William Marion Raines Senior High School in 1966. Lerose was an active member in the Viking band where she played the clarinet, and was a member of Epsilon Sigma Tau, Semi-Cortez and the National Honor Society. After graduation she enrolled in Bethune-Cookman College (now University), before transferring to University of North Florida where she earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing. 

Lerose enjoyed a very lengthy and fruitful career as a Nurse and Nurses’ Manager at University Hospital now Shands for 37 years until she retired. 

On July 31, 1970, she united in marriage with the love of her life, Luther Rucker. Everyone knew the depth of her devotion to her beloved “Mickey.” Their union was blessed with two sons and one daughter. Lerose held family close to her heart—she believed it to be life’s greatest gift. She treasured every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, and extended family, finding joy and fulfillment in the love they shared.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband Luther; parents; Leroy and Bernice Lucas, brother; LeRoy Lucas, Jr., mother and father-in-law, Thomas and Lizzie Rucker, and brothers-in-law Paul and Roland. 

Survivors to cherish her memory include her pride and joy, daughter; Letiandrea Rucker-Hinton, sons Lenrico (Carlecha); Leron Rucker, and Santonio Lucas-Tyler (Tonya); grandchildren; DeSean Rucker, Ellxis Rucker-Hinton, Ivane Rucker, Jordyn Rucker-Hinton, Journei Rucker, brother; Breon Lucas, sister-in-laws; Ludell Ervin-Williams, Phyllis Brooks, Novetta Butler, and Irma Rucker; and brother-in-law, Earlie Rucker. A host of loving and devoted nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

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