October 24, 1926 - February 23, 2022
Harriet passed away peacefully on February 23. She was 95 years old.
Born in Manteca and the child of Greek immigrants, she learned the value of hard work, determination, and her Orthodox Christian faith became the center of her life. She was a graduate of Manteca High School and then took exams where she was acknowledged for her efficiency and extraordinary typing speed. The Southern Pacific Railroad hired her as the executive secretary to the District Freight Manager and she retired after 42 years of service.
Harriet was a member of Women's Traffic and Transportation Club, Republican Women, and St.Basil's Philoptochos Society. After retirement, she enjoyed helping Philoptochos and working at the annual food festival. Her favorite place to be was in church on Sunday and she said that going to church makes your week perfect. She never went to an appointment empty-handed - there was always candy or cookies in her purse ready to hand out. Cooking and entertaining brought her great joy and she was exceptional at both.
Harriet met the love of her life, Jerry Lucas, in Stockton. They were married in 1954 and had two children, Jim and Helen. During their retirement, they had the opportunity to travel to their favorite destinations. They loved spending time with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Harriet loved being called pro-yiayia (great-grandmother) and felt truly blessed.
She is predeceased in death by her husband Jerry, sister Ruby, and brother James. She is survived by her son Jim Lucas of San Francisco, daughter Helen (Aaron) Garner of Galt, grandson Dean (Tara) Xanttopulos of Lodi, granddaughter Leah (Stephen) Bonnesen of Stockton, and great-grandchildren Nico Xanttopulos, Alex Xanttopulos, and Taso Bonnesen.
Trisagion Service will be held on Thursday, March 10th at 6 p.m., St. Basil Greek Orthodox Christian Church.
Donations can be made to St. Basil Philoptochos Society.