Della S. Lucas, 61, of Elkatawa, Kentucky, passed away on Thursday, March 19, 2026 at the UK Medical Center in Lexington, Kentucky. Born on January 1, 1965 in Lexington, she was the cherished daughter of the late J.C. and Susie Shelton Lucas.
Della’s life was a testament to love, dedication and compassion. She earned an associate degree in nursing and devoted her career to caring for others. As a nurse and referral specialist with Bluegrass Care Navigators, Della made a profound impact on countless lives through her unwavering commitment to her patients. Before her nursing career, she worked as a beautician, bringing joy and confidence to those she served. Her nurturing spirit extended far beyond her professional life; she was known for always checking on and providing for others.
Della’s favorite roles in life were being “Mom” and “Nana.” Her world revolved around her children and grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She is survived by her beloved daughters: Ashley (Colin Jordan), Courtney (Cody Hughes) and Whitney (Cody Fugate). She also leaves behind eight treasured grandchildren: Bentley, Caydon, Dakota, Whitley, Tinley, Maverick, Gracelyn and Mallory. Della’s love for her family knew no bounds; she found immense joy in spending time with them and creating lasting memories.
She is also survived by her siblings: brothers, Samuel Lucas, Daniel Lucas, Manuel Lucas (Pam) and Bobby Shelton (Pam); sisters, Mary Alice Lucas, Sylvia Gross (Doug), Beulah Turner and Lila Watts. Della’s extended family included numerous nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart. She was predeceased by her parents, J.C. and Susie Lucas; brothers, Wilton Lucas and Wilford Lucas; nieces, Julie Lucas and Teresa Lucas; brother-in-law, David Watts; and sisters-in-law, Audrey Lucas and Beatrice Lucas.
Della had a zest for life that was truly infectious. She brought light into every room she entered and kindness into every moment she shared with others. Known as the life of the party with a smile always on her face followed by laughter, Della had a rare ability to make everyone feel special. Her genuine nature left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
In addition to cherishing time with family and friends, Della enjoyed cooking delicious meals that brought people together around the table. She was an avid fan of Kentucky basketball and loved cheering on the Wildcats during games.
Visitation for Della will be held Sunday, March 22, 2026 from 5:00 - 9:00 PM at the Breathitt Funeral Home with her funeral service to begin Monday, March 23, 2026 at 1:00 PM with Paul Shepherd and Gary Bellamy officiating.
Burial will follow in the Lucas Cemetery at War Creek with Colin Jordan, Cody Hughes, Cody Fugate, Jimmy Stevens, Chad Keathley, John Earl Lucas, Pete Lucas and Jordan Keesy serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers include Bentley Jordan, Caydon Fugate, Maverick Fugate, John Bryant and D.J. Lucas.
Della’s memory will live on in the love she shared and the lives she touched. Her legacy is one of selflessness, warmth and unwavering devotion to those she cared about most.
May Della's memory bring comfort to all who knew her as they celebrate the beautiful life she lived.
