Upcoming Events
Sep
19
Memorial Gathering
6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Friendship Chapel Baptist Church
237 Friendship Chapel Rd., Wake Forest, NC 27587
Send FlowersOnly 3 days left for delivery to next service.
Ericka Lucas Obituary
(affectionately known by family and friends as "Big Bird", "Picky Pooh" or "E") was born on January 26, 1969, to Ms. Alice Omoti-Johnson and the late Joseph Junes Ruffin, Jr. in Bertie County, NC. Ericka departed this life on Tuesday, September 9th, 2025, at Hock Family Pavillion in Durham, NC.
Ericka accepted Christ as her personal Lord and Savior at an early age where she joined First Baptist Church of Kelford. Ericka attended Bertie High School where she graduated in 1987. In 1991, she graduated with honors, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from Elizabeth City State University. While at ECSU, Ericka pledged Delta Sigma Theta and played on the women's basketball team and the volleyball team. Ericka went on to further her education from North Carolina State University, obtaining a Master's degree in Education Administration.
Ericka worked for the Wake County Public Schools System for 30 years, serving in many roles including teacher, coach, Assistant Principal, Principal and Central Office Leadership. She had a strong impact on her community and touched the many lives she encountered.
Ericka was married to the love of her life, Reginald Lucas, for 24 years. Their union was blessed with one son, Nigel Lucas, both whom she adored and loved dearly.
Ericka is preceded in death by her father, Joseph Ruffin, Jr., and her grandparents, Ruth O. Hardy, Roscoe N. Hardy, Rosa Ruffin, and Joseph Ruffin, Sr. She leaves to cherish her husband, Reginald Lucas and son Nigel Lucas who reside in Raleigh, NC, her mother, Alice Omoti-Johnson residing in Durham, NC, two brothers, Darryle Ruffin (Brenda) residing in Raleigh, NC, Corey Rainey residing in Charlotte, NC, one sister, Rasheeda Johnson (Adrian) residing in Durham, NC, Father-In-Law, Wayne Jackson residing in Raleigh, NC, Mother-In-Law, Relia Lucas, two brothers-in-law, Ray Lucas and Donald Lucas, and one Sister-in-Law Jane Lucas all of Wake Forest, NC.
Ericka will be lovingly missed and cherished by her Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, Classmates, Colleagues, Students, and friends.
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12 Entries
Natalie Ayscue
Earlier today
Coach Lucas, our family extends our deepest heartfelt sympathy to you, your son and your entire family. You will continue to be in our prayers.
Natalie, Scott, Jordan & Logan Ayscue
Silas & Shante' Demary
Earlier today
Reggie & Nigel...sending our deepest and heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Praying that your loving and cherished memories sustain you all during this difficult time. Ericka was one of a kind, she filled our lives with happiness that we will carry in our hearts forever! I will miss my dear sister, friend and Soror. May God give you the peace and comfort you need. Love, Silas Sr. Shante', Samara, Sierra & Silas Jr.
Jonathan wray (family)
Earlier today
Dear Coach Lucas and Nigel, ALL Loving Families, Friends (FATHER GOD we offer up ALL PRAYERS and ALL GOD´S SUBSTAINED LOVE And ALL HIS GRACE Upon ALL OF YOU during this time of experiencing bereavement!!!!OUR LOVE -Jonathan-John & Jeanette Wray (Family)
Roni and Rick Baker
Earlier today
There are no words to express nor take away the pain and loss that is felt by Coach Lucas, Nigel, her family, friends, and colleagues. Ericka was always a bright light to everyone around her. May God comfort and wrap his loving arms around everyone during their time of grief. Our Continuous Love and Condolences to Everyone
Roni and Rick Baker
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Tina Hoots
Earlier today
There are no words to express the loss of Ericka. A tremendous person and educator. Sending love and prayers to Reggie, Nigel, family, and the WF community.
Linda Cooley
Yesterday
The love of friends and family carry you through your grief.My condolences.
Joan Vey
Yesterday
I followed Ms. Lucas to three schools to work with her. She was such a wonderful principal. We talked about how important family was to both of us. While sharing lunch duty we often spoke about changing future plans to spend more time with our children. My heart is so sad tonight but I am remembering all the lovely time spent with her.
Ida Hawley
Yesterday
Mrs Lucas was my Principal at Rolesville High School,and last year I retired from Rolesville High she left a lasting impression on me and Rolesville Rest Easy You did A Great Job
Trish Dawson
Yesterday
Reggie and Family , there are no words to describe your pain . I pray in the days to come , you´ll find peace , in knowing what a wonderful person she was and all the love she brought to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her and the lives she touched .
Trish Dawson
Peggy Clifton
Yesterday
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Dr. Tiffany Newsome
Yesterday
Mrs. Lucas was my first principal when I began teaching at Rolesville High. I will never forget her telling me that I needed to go to grad school and get my degree in school administration because I would be a principal one day. She saw me as a leader from the start. My sincerest condolences to Reggie and Nigel for your loss. What an amazing impact she had on not just me but so many others! May God grant you the strength you need to navigate such a difficult time.
C. Belvin Walton
Yesterday
My heart is broken for this family. I pray that God will give you his comfort during this time .
C. Belvin Walton
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Upcoming Events
Sep
19
Memorial Gathering
6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Friendship Chapel Baptist Church
237 Friendship Chapel Rd., Wake Forest, NC 27587
Send FlowersOnly 3 days left for delivery to next service.