Harold "Shorty" Edward Lucas, 95, of Swansea, South Carolina, passed away July 31, 2024 at NHC Parklane Columbia, South Carolina. He was born on December 27, 1928 in Gaston, South Carolina to the late Claude and Carrie (Mack) Lucas.

Harold was a proud US Air Force Veteran with over 21 years of honorable service. He served as a cargo loader and firefighter throughout the world and service in World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Harold earned a Bronze Star Medal for his faithful and honorable service. Following his military service, Harold began as a tool inventory specialist at Kodak, retiring after 20 years. Harold was an accomplished musician with performances at Carnegie Hall, The 1982 World’s Fair, toured with Roy Acuff that was televised with many big names of the day.  He and the Lucas family were awarded with The South Carolina Folk Heritage Award.  Harold also embarked on a 14 date tour with the South Eastern Tour Blues, Bluegrass and Bembe.  When he was not playing music or performing, he enjoyed large scale gardening, producing some of the best vegetables.  Harold was an avid NASCAR fan and was given the opportunity to construct part of the old Charlotte Motor Speedway.  Harold's kind demeanor and wise ways will be missed by all that knew and loved him.

Harold  is survived by his sons, Bruce W. Lucas (Carla), Randy L. Lucas (Dee); grandchildren, Justin R. Lucas, Alison Bailee Croft (Kyle); great-grandchildren, Hannah J. Lucas, Wesley N. Croft, Emery L. Croft.  He is also survived by a sister, Barbara Hudson.  He is also survived by his Aunts, Uncles and Cousins to treasure his memory.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Annette L. Lucas; a brother, Clyde Lucas, Claude Lucas, Jr., Bryant Lucas and William Lucas.  He is also predeceased by his grandson, Travis J. Lucas.

The family will receive friends at First Baptist Church of Gaston, 121 Oakey Springs Drive, Gaston SC, 29053 on Monday, August 5, 2024 from 9:30 AM until 10:30AM with funeral services to follow the family visitation at 11:00AM, with Reverend Brady Henderson officiating.  Burial to follow in the church cemetery. Funeral Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of Gaston, or the charity of one's choice.