Lucie Jager Balck

Lucie Jäger Balck was born on November 23rd, 1934, in the small town of Hirzenhain, Germany. The daughter of Karl and Ottilie Jäger and the youngest of three sisters, Lucie grew up during the hardships of World War II which gave her a profound sense of gratitude and appreciation for the simple things in life. She immigrated to the United States at the age of eighteen to join her beloved sister Elsbeth in Maryland and helped raise her two nephews. One of her proudest moments was when she became an American citizen.
Lucie later moved to New Jersey, where she met her husband of 64 years, Eric. Together they had two children, Michele Elizabeth Balck Helffrich and Jeffrey Richard Balck. Most of their marriage was spent living in Maryland before moving to Greenville South Carolina 15 years ago.
Lucie was a proud homemaker, and her greatest joy was caring for others. Her five grandchildren, Jenna Elizabeth Helffrich, Samantha Grace Helffrich, Jeffrey Hunter Balck, Campbell Michele Balck and Carlie Brooks Balck were her pride and joy. She was adored by each of her grandchildren, and especially loved by her daughter-in-law, Rachel Ida Balck.
Lucie's life was full of cherished moments with friends, endless card games, long phone calls, and words of wisdom. She was a mentor to the younger generation, quick to make friends and treasured conversation with friends and strangers alike. She dressed in style, was never afraid to tell you her opinion, always saved room for desert and could not leave the house without a spray of perfume and her "pocketbook." Her spunky personality and adorable accent always lifted spirits and filled the room with smiles and laughter.
Lucie died on February 24th, 2025, surrounded by her husband, children, grandchildren, and dear friends. Although we have lost a special wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend, her light and spirit will live in all of us forever.
In addition to the love, she felt for her family and friends, Lucie adored pets and animals and they in turn were drawn to her. In her honor, donations can be made to the Greenville Humane Society, 305 Airport Road Greenville SC 29607.
A memorial service will be held on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Thomas McAfee Funeral Homes, Downtown.
Friends are encouraged to share their favorite memories of Lucie with the family by clicking on the button labeled "Share A Memory".