Orlucas Curtis Jr.

It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn the passing of our beloved Poppy, Lucas Curtis. Lucas passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his wife, daughter, and grandchildren, on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at the age of 78. He is now resting with the Lord.

Lucas was born in Canton, Ohio, to Orlucas Curtis Sr. and Ater Mae (Dyer) Curtis, both of whom preceded him in death. He married his college sweetheart, Javonda D. Saxton Curtis, on December 7, 1968. Their union was blessed with 56 God-guided years of marriage and one daughter, Kara Vonne Curtis. Lucas was the proud grandfather of Victoria Marie and Charles Anthony Curtis, who lovingly called him Poppy. Family was always Lucas’s priority, and we knew we were deeply loved. Victoria and Tony were Poppy’s “roadies,” stealing his heart and holding a special place in his life.

Lucas was one of five children. He was preceded in death by his sister Mattie Burns (Eddie). He is survived by his brother Robert Curtis of Canton, Ohio; brother Bobbie Jo Curtis (Melanie) of Houston, Texas; and brother Alton Curtis of Canton, Ohio. Lucas will also be lovingly remembered by a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

A graduate of Canton McKinley High School, where he was a standout basketball player, Lucas went on to attend Central State University, where he met Javonda. They became inseparable and built a life together. Lucas began his career at Ford Motor Company in 1969 as a computer programmer. He was transferred to the Ford Sharonville location in 1986, where he became a supervisor. After 33 years of dedicated service, he retired in 2002 (rumor has it he retired to be a full-time grandfather).

Lucas was larger than life. His presence lit up a room, and his sense of humor made him the life of every party. Generous to a fault, Lucas wholeheartedly believed in caring for his family first in every way. His friends knew they could always depend on him in times of need.

Lucas often quoted, “It is more blessed to give than to receive,” and he lived by this principle. The memories of Lucas’s love for his family, passion for cooking, enthusiasm for football and basketball, and enjoyment of gardening will forever remain in our hearts. He wished to be remembered as a “good guy,” and without a doubt, his wish is being granted.

Lucas knew the Lord and lived his life as a testament to his faith. His prayers for peace of mind during his last days were answered.

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