Paul Dean Lucas, 90, of Morgantown – affectionately known as “Pap” – graduated to his eternal reward Sunday, February 15, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Born to the late Bertha and David Lucas in Moundsville, Pap grew up with a deep love for fishing, hunting, and sports.
After graduating from University High School, he began a lifelong career in masonry. As a proud member of the Bricklayers Union, he was respected for his superb craftsmanship; his legacy is literally etched into the local landscape, most notably in the block and brick construction of Riverside Apostolic Church (The River Church) in the early 1980s.
Pap’s life changed forever in 1977 when he dedicated his life to his Lord. It was through his faith that he met the love of his life, Betty. Together, they married and blended their families into one.
Pap became a true prayer warrior, known for his tremendous faith and his commitment to his family and church. A member of The River Church for over 40 years, he served faithfully as a board member and trustee. In 2024, he began attending Compass Church, pastored by his grandson, Chad. Though his final year brought both uncertainty and physical trials, he remained anchored in his conviction, finally claiming the victory of 2 Timothy 4:7-8: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
Pap was a gentle man with a stern voice and a big heart. He was a fixture in the Westover community, easy to spot as he navigated the streets in his signature white Lincoln Town Car with the burgundy roof. Whether he was cheering on his grandsons at WesMon Little League, tending his garden, or sitting in his usual seat for West Virginia University basketball and football games, Pap always had time for people. He was never too busy for a conversation at his kitchen table or a fishing stream, usually fueled by a flannel shirt, a warm cup of coffee, and a testimony of what God had done for him.
Pap is survived by his siblings, David Lucas Jr. (Pat), John Lucas (Shirley), and Helen Hoke; his children, Deanna Rowan (Charles), Dean Lucas, Rick Lucas, and Barbie Shaver (Dave); and his stepchildren, Jeff Poling (Cheryl), Melanie Boster (David), Kelly Griffin (Michael). He leaves behind a legacy through his five grandchildren, Chad Rowan (Ashley), Crystal Shelley (James), Tristan Lucas (Tiffany), Tori Britton (Caleb), and Sierra Lucas; as well as six great-grandchildren, Abree, Cayna, Judah, Titus, Michael, and Rosalie; and many stepgrandchildren, nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years, Betty Ruth Poling; his sister, Carol Lucas; brother, Sherril Lucas; son, Bryan Paul Lucas; daughter-in-law, Jackie Lucas; stepson, Timothy Poling; and grandson, Nick Lucas.
Family and friends will gather Thursday, February 19, from 4 to 8 p.m. in The River Church, 4234 Dents Run Blvd., Westover, WV 26501, and again Friday, February 20, from 10 until funeral services at 11 a.m., with Pastor Chad Rowan officiating. Burial will follow at East Oak Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to WesMon Little League, in Pap’s memory.
The family wishes to extend its gratitude to Amedisys Hospice for their compassionate care in his final days.
McCulla Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements and condolences may be sent to the family at www.McCulla.com
