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Helen Campbell Lucas was born in Thackerville on October 17, 1932 and died on Wednesday, September 26, 2018 in Fair Oaks, California. She moved with her parents, Daisy and John Campbell, and her sister Marian to Modesto, California in the 1940’s and started a new life.
Helen graduated from Modesto High in 1951. Her years in high school ignited a passion for writing, as she became co-editor of the high school newspaper, did yearbook editing and belonged to writing clubs. She continued her pursuit of writing, majoring in English and journalism at Abilene Christian College. After college she was the social editor for the Modesto Journal and later would work for over five years for the Modesto Bee on the editorial staff.
She continued as a freelance writer in between other pursuits.
In 1952 Helen married Earl Lucas. They raised three children in Modesto and Waterford, later moving to Orangevale, California.
Her interest in genealogy was sparked by a visit to see her grandmother, Josie McGill, in Oklahoma. A great storyteller, Granny McGill regaled her and all the kids with stories of Oklahoma Territory, rural life and her ancestors. From there Helen started to put together family trees, researching libraries, cemeteries, and courthouses all over the country. She discovered ancestors going back many, many generations and the fascinating stories of their lives. Her research on her family tree connected her to her Scottish heritage, leading to her involvement in various genealogy groups, the Caledonian Club, and the Scottish Games. As a well-respected genealogist, she taught genealogy at American River College and assisted many people in finding their own roots. This became her life’s work and passion.
Helen was a lifelong member of the Church of Christ and maintained many friendships throughout her life that were formed there. Her church and her community were very important to her.
Survivors include her children, Deneece “Dino” Lucas (Lisa), Cindy Swinger (Joe) and Susan Lucas; grandchildren, Stephanie, Haily, Daniel, Sarah and Matthew; great-grandchildren, Liam and Daphne; her cousins, nieces and nephews; and her extended family in Oklahoma.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, October 8 at Ceres Memorial Park, 1801 East Whitmore, Ceres, California. In lieu of flowers, Helen would be honored if you traced your family tree.
This obituary included a photo of Mrs. Lucas.
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