Laurence D. Lucas

Laurence D. Lucas was born to Dr. L.A. Lucas and Margaret Killeen Lucas on August 24, 1932 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. He died on April 2, 2019 surrounded by family. Larry attended Rosary School, Classen High School and Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. After graduating with a D.D.S., Larry served four years as a Captain in the United States Air Force, stationed in Ramstein, Germany. Upon leaving the Air Force, Larry returned to Oklahoma City with his first wife, Julie Jordan, to begin his long career as a businessman and entrepreneur. Larry started many successful enterprises, including Airport Express, Medride, Tune King, and various communications and real estate ventures. He partnered with attorney John Belt in the early redevelopment of the Paseo District, and owned Culbertson Plaza near Lincoln Terrace. Larry loved the civic affairs of Oklahoma City and actively participated in community leadership. He was instrumental in the founding and early growth of Leadership Oklahoma City, the Allied Arts Foundation, the Festival of the Arts, the Community Arts Foundation, and the Phaythopen Charity Auction. He served as president of the Oklahoma Art Center, Oklahoma Science and Arts Foundation, and on the boards of the OKC and State Arts Councils, and many other charitable causes and organizations. Larry was also a well-informed participant in local and state politics. He co-chaired the Rockefeller campaign for President in Oklahoma and helped raise funds for numerous candidates in whom he believed. Larry exemplified, to the very end, the "moderate" Republican that is now so rare. Larry married artist Jean Richardson in 1977. Together, they anchored a combined family of seven children, which has now grown to 16 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Larry organized many family gatherings, galas, and grand adventures. He taught his children and grandchildren important life skills, such as pool, poker and juggling. He originated the Family Triathlon and the sport of full-contact Scrabble. Larry is survived by his wife Jean; children Laird Lucas (Cat), Matt Lucas (Becky), Shawna Hartley (Danny), Teresa Schneider (Don), Dr. Andrea Richardson, Karen Richardson Tyler (John), and Brooks Richardson (Elizabeth); grandchildren Jordan, Lindsay, Alexa, Preston, Matthew, Austin, Erin, Amaya, Hannah, Tyler, Claire, Anna, Jackson, Cate, Charlie B. and Charlie S.; and his three great-grandchildren. He is also survived by sisters Marilyn Baisden, Susie Nelson, Kay Lucas, and Gayle Semtner (Barney), as well as his many nieces and nephews. Larry is preceded in death by his brother, Dr. Jerry Lucas. Larry was an extraordinary man who lived a full and marvelous life. He devoured news and literature all his life. His engaging intellect inspired everyone around him. Memorial service to celebrate Larry will be 2pm Friday at Westminster Presbyterian Church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Dean McGee Eye Institute, 608 Stanton L. Young Blvd, OKC OK 73104, or the Oklahoma City Arts Council, 400 W. California Ave., OKC OK 73102.