Shirleen Lucas

Shirleen Lucas, affectionately known as “Leen” by her sisters, was born on July 31, 1953, and entered into eternal rest on Saturday, February 7, 2026.

She was the fourth child of Gladys and John T. Lucas. Born in Coleman, Florida, Shirleen grew up in a large family totaling 11 siblings. She always kept her hometown close to her heart and cherished the bonds and memories formed in her early years.

Shirleen attended Duncan Elementary School in Coleman, FL. The family later migrated to South Bay, Florida, and she graduated from Glade Central High School in Belle Glade, FL, where she excelled as a competitive tennis player.

After high school, Shirleen moved to Schenectady, New York, in search of better employment opportunities. A determined and positive woman, she worked in patient services at Ellis Hospital and in various retail stores as a sales associate. In addition, Shirleen was a gifted seamstress and used her talent to help supplement her income.

Shirleen remained in Schenectady, where she led a meaningful life raising her four children and later enjoying her grandchildren. She spoiled her family and community with her amazing strawberry cakes and taught her children how to persevere through adversity—to be leaders, not followers.

Shirleen was a woman of deep faith and spirituality and a longtime member of Refreshing Springs Church in Schenectady, NY. She loved her church family and was a dedicated member, contributing her time and talents to various church programs, serving on the hospitality committee and as an announcing clerk.

Shirleen had a bright, welcoming smile and was always impeccably dressed. She loved her children and family immensely and treasured every moment spent with them.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her son Derrick, and four siblings: Harold, Edwin, Rosalind, and Fredricka.

She leaves to cherish her memory three daughters: Dominique Lucas and Darcelle Lucas of Schenectady, NY, and Devan Diabate of Fuquay-Varina, NC; sisters Myra Young and Carlese Burnett of Tampa, FL; Bernadine Byrd of Newark, NJ; Janice Pursley and Michelle Lucas of Ocala, FL; Val Smith of West Palm Beach, FL; Yolanda Lucas of Fayetteville, NC; brothers Michael Lucas of St. Petersburg, FL and Glenn Young , Orland FL. She also leaves cherished granddaughters Tsayana Lucas of Albany, NY, and Amaria Lucas of Schenectady, NY; and her loving grandson, James Mayweather II of Fuquay-Varina, NC. Two adoring nieces, Tina Byrd of North Plainfield, NJ, and Kenyetta Cheatum of Lumberton, NJ. She additionally leaves her dear cousin Deborah Young of Schenectady, NY, as well as a host of bonus grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews, and devoted friends.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Bethel Baptist Church in Coleman, Florida.

Flowers and cards of condolence may be sent to Eastside Funeral Home, 210 Knott St., Leesburg, Florida 34748