William Austin Lucas Sr., September 2, 1950 – September 5, 2026. William Austin Lucas Sr., 76, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. William was born September 2, 1950, to Clydean Lee Collins Lucas and Charles William Lucas. He was preceded in death by his parents and was lovingly raised by his grandmother, Nellie Mae Eubanks. William was a free spirit with a lifelong love of music. A true free-range hippie at heart, he lived life on his own terms and spent many years playing in a band. He also enjoyed teaching his sons the joy of music and playing guitar, and in his later years began learning bluegrass music. William worked for many years as a cook at Town Topic in Kansas City, Missouri, where he met Theresa Ann Passler, the love of his life and mother of his sons. They fell in love and married soon after meeting. Theresa preceded William in death. William later worked as a produce selector for United Fruit Company in Kansas City, Kansas. Although William did not live with his sons throughout their entire childhood, he always made sure they had what they needed and never stopped loving them.

William had a special love for his dogs. He was preceded in death by his beloved Loki and Chica and is survived by his sweet Biscuit. William is survived by his sons, William Austin Lucas Jr. McEntyre and Rhonda McEntyre, and Kevin Lee Lucas and Angel Bailey; grandsons Samuel Austin Lucas and Hunter Edgell Lucas; aunt Dorothy Collins; the Cupp, Bryson, Lucas and Collins families; numerous cousins, extended family, and countless friends. Years ago, Kevin and Austin traveled to Joplin to bring their father home from a difficult situation. From that day forward, Kevin devoted himself to caring for his dad, ultimately becoming his sole caretaker and giving him the love, compassion, dignity, and unwavering presence he deserved. William spent his final moments surrounded by those who loved him, with both of his sons holding his hands. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories, music, stories, and love that will continue through his family and friends.

May he rest peacefully, reunited with Theresa, Loki, and Chica, with the music playing once again. We love you, William. Endlessly.

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