Stevenson & Sons Funeral Homes

Serving families in the Miles City, Forsyth, Lame Deer, Broadus, Circle, Jordan and Terry areas for three generations.

For Immediate Help Call
Miles City: 406-232-4457 — Forsyth: 406-346-2311

In Memory Of

Carol Lucas, age 76, of Winter Garden, Florida, formerly of Miles City.

April 6, 1943 – July 10, 2019

Carol Jean Lucas passed away at 3:41pm on July 10, 2019, in Winter Garden, Florida, with her daughter by her side after she and her husband Jim spent a touching morning together in celebration of their 54th wedding anniversary. She was 76 and died after a long hard battle from complications of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease.

Carol was born in Butte, Montana, at 6:14 pm on April 6, 1943. She was the middle child and the only daughter of Thomas and Matilda Dunstan. She spent her younger days competing with her brothers as they played her favorite game of Hoop and Stick in the street with their dog “Pal” and “sampling” penny candy from the candy display at her mother’s small neighborhood grocery store. She attended Greeley Grade School in Butte and graduated from Butte High in 1961. She then attended Montana Tech for two years (Butte School of Mines at that time) and the University of Montana, where she was a member of the Alpha Phi sorority. During her high school and college days, she was employed as a dental assistant for Dr. Edward Guay.

Carol loved growing up in Butte and appreciated its great character and culture. Her parents instilled pride in her hometown and as for as long as she was able, she loved to meander the streets of her youth. Remembering Butte, Montana’s Richest City was one of the last books read to her just before her passing, along with her Bible, and her favorite book Dear & Glorious Physician.

In January of 1965, Carol went to work for the Legislative Council in Helena. It was there that she met her husband, Representative James Lucas of Miles City. In the interim, she had applied for a position with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and received her security clearance. While waiting for her start date, Jim whisked her off her feet and after a whirlwind courtship, he proposed, and the rest is history. They were married on July 10, 1965, and made their home in Miles City where they raised their four children.

Carol loved living in Miles City with its good people and lifelong friends. She gave of her time, but she loved being at home the very most. There she would garden, whip up something delicious in the kitchen, paint, dance, and spend time with her loved ones. Studying family genealogy and teaching herself the Ukulele were passions. She enjoyed golf, tennis and racquetball, biking and skiing. When time permitted, she loved to read. She ate ice cream every single day and loved her little dogs like children.

Her home was full of love and a source of pride, and she loved caring for all those who entered. Always a bustle of activity with the kids and their friends, Carol spent time baking with them, teaching them to watercolor, and helping them learn to swim in the backyard pool. They buried snakes, bunnies, and whatever creature met its fate in the yard. Of course, a cross made of sticks and grass was always placed on each gravesite. She had a strong work ethic and an enduring Christian faith. She was full of energy, and valued honesty and good character.

Carol and Jim were active members of the First United Methodist Church and her favorite project was being involved in the restoration of the church’s stained glass windows. She was a Fifty Year Member of P.E.O., enjoying her association with diverse and talented women of all ages and abilities in their efforts to assist others with their education. She served on the Miles City Library Foundation and was a lifelong member of Republican Women.

Her husband, her children, and her grandchildren were her true loves and she nurtured and supported her husband in all things in his busy life. When Jim arrived home, she relished a dance with him around the kitchen to “Satin Doll,” the song from their very first dance together. Traveling and sharing other cultures and experiences were some of their favorite things to do. Carol used to say that “she, among all women, was blessed.” She is deeply missed.

Carol is survived by her husband James P. Lucas and four children, eleven grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her brothers John and Tom Dunstan and their families.

As per Carol’s wishes, her ashes will be held until the time of death of her beloved husband Jim when her urn will be placed in his arms and buried with him.

Shortly after Carol was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, she made sure that her family knew of her most important wish in wanting to contribute to the research and possible cure of Alzheimer’s. That wish was fulfilled through her donation to the Harvard Brain Tissue Resource Center at McLean Hospital in Boston, MA. Those wishing to make a memorial in her memory may provide it in the name of Carol J. Lucas to: Harvard Brain Tissue Resource Center, McLean Hospital, Mailstop 138, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA 02478 or Secure online gift: https://givemclean.partners.org/SSLPage.aspx?pid=359) Please select “Brain Bank Fund” in the ‘Designation’ field. Memorials may also be made to the First United Methodist Church at 24 N 11th Street, Miles City, MT 59301, or the Miles City Public Library at 1 South 10th Street, Miles City, MT 59301, or to the organization of choice.

Funeral services will be held at the First United Methodist Church on Friday, July 26th at 1:00pm. A reception following at the Town & Country Club from 2:30-5:00 pm. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.stevensonandsons.com.

Service Schedule

Funeral Service

1:00 p.m.

Friday July 26, 2019

First United Methodist Church

24 N 11th St

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

Service Schedule

Funeral Service

1:00 p.m.

Friday July 26, 2019

First United Methodist Church

24 N 11th St

Miles City, Montana 59301

View map

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Memories

Read the thoughts and memories, then feel free to add your own.

  2. Lucas family, I am praying for you at this time of loss. May you remember Carol’s faith and that she is no longer suffering, and is happy with our Lord in Heaven.

  3. When I would be back in Miles City visiting, I would be in the grocery store and Mrs. Lucas would see me and always say “Hi, David!” and make me feel so welcome in my old hometown. I was always amazed that she even knew who I was! A nicer person, you could not find.

    My sympathy to Leslie and all of the Lucas family. May you find comfort in your memories and in knowing that others share in your sorrow.

  4. Jerry and Becky Coon

    Our love and prayers for all the family. Carol was truly a kind and special person and always took the time to stop and give a hug and let you know she cared. What a special family for Miles City while they were here. God give you His comfort to each and every one.

  5. Once in a while, if you’re really lucky, you meet someone who brings out the best in everybody! Carol was that person. We could all go on forever about her attributes–she was the whole enchilada (and an amazing cook). She’ll be missed, and our hearts go out to her family.

  6. Sorry to hear that Carol passed on. I always thought she was one of the most classy ladies in Miles City.

  7. So sorry for your loss. I respected Carol so much. She was a great example for all of us.

  8. So sorry to learn of Carol’s passing. She was a wonderful, talented lady who will be missed by many. Prayers for her family.

  10. A very special lady. We send our sincere condolences.
    Bill and Sandy Jensen

  11. I always enjoyed my visits with Carol. We had several special laughs between us about the boys. One time I called her by accident after the boys were grown and asked for Doug. She said, “I don’t know Jan, but I will check out in the pond,” recognizing my voice. The boys were forever in the pond looking for golf balls, sometimes submerging in that slimy water to the horror of both moms. She was a lovely lady, and my sincere condolences to Jim and all the family.

  12. Your family is in my prayers. This is a sad time for all who knew Carol.

    Joan Monaghan and family.

  13. So sorry to hear this news. What a great person she was. Our thoughts and prays to all of Carol’s family.

  14. Never was there a more gracious, kind, and humble lady. Keeping all of her family in our prayers.

  15. We are so sorry! Miles City was so fortunate to have the Lucas family as part of us for so long. Jim always enjoyed seeing Carol and getting a hug from her, as they talked about all sorts of things. She always made all of us feel so special just because of WHO she was. You are all in our thoughts and prayers as you go through these next days. I know you will have smiles through your tears.

  16. Dear Lucas family, We already miss her. She was the essence of class, beauty and humility. Harvest dinners, the Fair Booth, Christmas Teas and any other church activity that needed organizing, Carol was at the heart of it, smiling and chatting with everyone while she efficiently managed things. A devoted daughter, mother and soulmate to Jim, she always put her family first. On the list of reasons to try for Heaven, one would be to share another glass of iced tea with Carol Lucas, because she is truly there. You are in our hearts and prayers. God bless you.
    Jim and Mary Ann Liles

  17. Love and prayers for family and friends. So sorry. Our loss but Heaven’s gain!

  19. Carol was one of sweetest people I ever met. Used to enjoy visiting with her when she was out in yard. She was one of those special people that when you were around her life was good.

  21. Her home always so comfortable and inviting. Her beautiful smile. The direct look into our eyes, giving full attention. Her delight in meeting the newest family members. These and many more memories come to mind when I think of this Montana girl. The favorite recollection is in conversations. No matter the subject, there was laughter. Oh yes….. I loved the laughter.

  22. Our deepest sympathy to Jim, Leslie, Todd and the entire extended family. I have many wonderful hand-written recipes from Carol that I use all the time and cherish each one. Carol was dedicated to her family and a beautiful example to all. Sending our love and prayers.

  24. To all of the Lucas family, our sincere condolences on the loss of Carol, the date of her departure was their anniversary as our daughter, Kristin, was born on the day they were married, July 10,1065. I know this as my parents, Frank and Vivian Peterson attended the wedding in Butte before returning to Billings to meet their newest grandchild. She was a beautiful woman and a lovely friend, God bless you all!

  25. Dear Lucas family,
    Carol is such a beautiful soul inside and outside and has now found peace in a place where pain and suffering does not exist. You all have the most precious guardian angel!

    We said goodbye to our mom, Helen Oberlander, last September and can feel some of what you might be feeling. Maybe they are having a great visit in heaven.

  26. Carol was so loving and gracious. We are sad to learn of her passing. Our sincere condolences.

  27. Carol would frequently come in to Lay-Rite Flooring where I worked. I had never known her very well. But she was always the most sweet & genuine lady & always treated me with respect. I never understood why she was so kind to me. But that’s who she was .

  28. To Jim and family we send our heart felt sympathies and want you to know that we are here for you and to call on us at any time. May God wrap His loving arms around you and give you the comfort, love and peace you are needing and in the difficult days ahead.
    My husband Pastor Jerry and I came to Miles City 5 years ago and before one of the first services Carol came up to him and said that she knew that she was not doing well, and would need to find a place that would take care of her and her needs that others could not do. She was such a lovely lady, and always thinking of others. Even though we knew her just a short time, we learned a lot from her and how gracious she was to so many and the wonderful work she did in the church and for so many. I am sure that she and Helen Oberlander are conversing about their times together and how important their families have been to them, and the wonderful care they gave in so many special ways.
    My husband has since retired and his last service was two Sundays ago and will continue to live in Miles City until next Summer and then will be moving to Billings. We have loved our church and church family and they have been so very kind to us.
    WE have heard so many wonderful stories about Carol and Jim and they have been such a blessing to so many, and people that you love to get to know, and wish that we had had more time with them.
    WE know that Carol is now at peace and out of pain and walking with the Lord and know that even though she has gone to her heavenly home, that she will always be with you. May her spirit bring you peace knowing that she is now at peace.
    Peace I give to you and Peace I leave with you. God Bless each and everyone of you and know that Heaven has gained another Angel.
    Pastor Jerry and Bev Collins

  29. As a kid, social gatherings were always a bit awkward for me. Especially a pool party. Carol was always able to dispel any insecurities I had just by they way she engaged each of us individually. She always made you feel special when you entered her home. It didnt matter if there were 30 + kids taking over her home, she made it feel like our home. She will be missed by so many, and her family the most. So very sorry for your loss.

  30. So very sorry to hear of Carol’s passing. She was such a beautiful person, inside and out, and she will be missed by many. Her many acts of kindness will always be remembered.

  31. I am so sorry for the grief you bear. Know that she was admired and adored by so many. May the millions of good memories overshadow your sorrow a bit at this time, and more as time passes. I am ever grateful how welcoming she and Jim were to Marci as a newcomer; it made all the difference in the world. Love to all. Connie

  32. Both my wife, Denise and I were extremely saddened to hear of Carol’s passing. She was a very nice woman and always pleasant to talk to. Our condolences to Him and the entire Lucas family.

  33. Jim and family, We are sorry to hear of Carol’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of sorrow.

  34. Sending condolences to the Lucas family. Carol was a very special person. May God guide u through this difficult time.

  35. Our condolences to the Lucas family,
    We are very sad to hear of Carol’s passing. She was a wonderful lady who exemplified grace, compassion and class. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you in this time of sorrow.

  36. I have such fond memories of Carol and my sweet mother getting ready for dinner parties. They had a great friendship, shared lots of laughs and a few tears together. What a wonderful woman this world has lost, but heaven has the gain. My prayers.

  38. Our condolences to the family of a wonderful lady. You will always be in our memories. Such a comforting feeling talking to Carol, and she was always concerned about everyone. That love will go on through her children and grandchildren.

  39. We send our prayers and sympathy to your family. Carol was a lovely lady and a good neighbor to my parents.
    LaVerne (Jones), Elwin and Jack Hebner

  40. Our deepest sympathies go out to you Jim, Leslie and Todd. Sue and I knew all of you, I had the children in my class. Carol was always so gracious and kind, a real sweetheart of a lady. I know you will all miss her tremendously, so will all the people she knew in Miles City. She is now free of pain and with the angels in heaven, and looking down upon you with that beautiful smile on her face.

  42. Jim and family,we are so saddened by the passing of your loved one. What a wonderful person she was ,always such a pleasant smile and a very kind word.She will be greatly missed by you all.May God bless and comfort you during these difficult days and in the days ahead.
    Ruben and June Opp

  44. Jim, Leslie, Todd and your families. You are in our thoughts and prayers. We came to Miles City young and I s perienced.. Carol took me under her wing and helped me become involved in the life of the community, and with so many others, taught me how to cook and entertain. One day I was lamenting not being able to make a good strawberry pie. And as good a cook as she was, She said, “You know there are some things you just have to use a mix for.” And another tip I always remembered: “There’s no such thing as too much salt. It makes everything better.” Probably those things can apply to many things in life. I will remember her always as a wonderful mentor, fun person and someone who always gave so much to everyone she knew and she was always so proud of all of you. God Bless. Jan and Terry Wagner.

  45. Mrs. Lucas was the definition of what it means to be beautiful inside and out…peace and love to all those she cherished.

  46. Carol and Jim helped with the youth dinners at church, and what gracious people they are. Sending prayers for comfort and peace at this time.

  47. My thoughts and prayers are with all of Carol’s family at this time. I considered Carol a dear friend and will cherish the memories of her. God Bless

  48. Condolences to Jim, Leslie, Todd and their families. Carol was such a lovely lady and was so kind to everyone. There were always kids swimming in their pool and she had treats for them also. May the memories of Carol live on forever. God bless and comfort your family and peace be with you in the loss of this gracious lady. Beverly Haynes

  49. We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers are with you and your family.

  50. We will always remember Carol as the lovely woman who quietly brought food to a person who was homeless in Miles City. I’m certain it was only one small example of her generous spirit. Our condolences to Jim and to all of the family. May God Bless and keep you close as you remember her wonderful life.

  51. I remember Carol coming to my Hr. High home ec class during our international foods section. She taught us how to make Sarma, a cabbage roll type dish. Some 45 years later, I still make it! My condolences to Jim and family.

  53. I was one of Mrs.Carol’s caregivers and it was such a pleasure taking care of her she was very sweet and so humble I will never forget her beautiful smile her hugs and her out burst of laughter ,she will be truly missed 😭but I thank God for the times I shared with her and her wonderful family ,I really look forward to seeing her in the resurrection oh what a time we’ll have rip sweetie💞

  54. Jim, Leslie, Todd and your Families,
    So sorry to here of Carol’s passing please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers.

  55. The tributes to Carol Lucas have multiplied on this thread. Carol and Jim were always so gracious and kind to me and my family, especially during the earlier years of my career at Miles Community College. We have missed them so much since they left Miles City. What a great couple, and what a sad loss, for the time being. Our sincere condolences to Jim and to the entire Lucas family.

  56. It is so sad that someone so dear has left us. We are thinking of her with fond memories. She was just a classy lady. Our deepest sympathy goes out to her family.

  57. Our prayers for comfort and peace to all of Carol’s family during this time of loss.

  58. Jim
    I am deeply saddened to hear of your loss. I will never forget the first night I golfed with you and she brought us a pizza on hole number 3. She was one of a kind.

  59. Some of my earliest memories are of going down the street to the Lucas’ to play. Carol was always so welcoming. My condolences to the entire family.

  60. Sending many prayers and condolences to this special lady’s family.

  61. Our condolences to Jim and family on the loss of one classy lady. Carol and Jim’s love story is something for all to strive for. Carol’s smile shines even brighter in heaven.

  62. Jim and Family, Our condolences on your loss of Carol. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Doug and Diane Ellingson

  63. Jim, Leslie, Todd and families, Carol was adored by so many. She always had a smile, hug or kind word to make everyone feel at ease. She was always interested in what was going on with you when talking to you. She made people feel so good and loved. This has carried over to all of you too. You are all such a kind family. My heart breaks for you as you deal with Carol’s passing. I hope you find peace in the love and support from all your friends. We all love you much!

  64. Carol was significant contributor to Miles City. Always willing to help in so many areas. I never saw her without her wonderful smile. Please accept my deepest sympathy.

  65. Everyone liked and respected Carol Lucas. You were a fortunate family to be in her care. We pray for peace for all of you. Blessings.

  66. We are thinking of you and your family, Carol was always a joy to visit with, what a great example of a wife, Mother and friend! Our sympathy!

  67. Beautiful obituary for a lovely lady!
    We had the greatest of times during the legislative years in Helena.
    Carol & I were the same age, both of us married to older men & lawyers as well. So much in common..her Butte, me, Anaconda. Both of us Croatian..sarma & povitica served many times to friends.
    We have been apart for many years but Jim & Carol have always & will remain in our hearts.
    Love you, Jim, Leslie & Todd. 🧡

  68. Dearest Leslie and Family,

    Deepest Condolences for the loss of your beloved mother. She lives on in her loved ones who will keep her memory alive. May you be comforted by memories of your mother before she was afflicted by this awful disease

    Love Phil, Heidi and Isabel

  69. My heart goes out to Jim and the family as you mourn Carol’s passing. She was such a kind, gracious women. I often thought of her as “the hostess with the mostest,” since she loved cooking and hosting people at her and Jim’s lovely home. She is missed by all who knew her.

  70. I graduated High School with Carol. I enjoyed seeing her at the reunions. She was a sweet woman inside and out. She will be greatly missed.

  72. So sorry for Carol’s passing. Condolences to Jim and your family. We went to grade school and high school together in Butte America. May God bless and keep you. Ron Malloy family.

  73. Lucas family, I am praying for you at this time of loss. Sending prayers and remember all the good times you had with Carol, she is now a angel and not suffering in pain anymore..God Bless You all

  74. I was saddened to read about Carol. She worked for my Father, Ed Guay, for many years and I always remember what a beautiful girl she was. Our family stayed in touch for lots of years. Blessings to you all.

  76. Jim, Leslie, Todd and Family,

    I was saddened to hear of Carol’s passing.

    The Clark family enjoyed years of legal representation by Jim.

    I enjoyed getting to know Jim, Carol and Leslie over the years.

    Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

    Tenderly:,May time heal your sorrow. Gently, May friends ease your pain. Softly, May peace replace heartaches.
    And, may warmest memories remain.

    In Friendship,

    Lance Clark, Miles City

    Darlene Clark, Miles City

  77. We’re so sorry to hear that Carol has passed. Carol was one of the most kindest & loving people I’ve known. Always a smile on her face & nothing but kind words ever came from her mouth. Our thoughts & prayers are with Jim & family. Carol will forever be missed & never forgotten💜

  78. My deepest sympathy to Jim & family for the loss of Carol
    Being we’re both from Butte, I didn’t meet Carol & Jim until
    Later on in life. We always had so many laughs and
    Fun when we were together. I will always remember Carol’s
    Wonderful laugh. R I P sweet lady! Memory Eternal.

  79. I am sorry for your loss. Carol taught me to make “Best Ever Brownies” and did art with my children. She is missed ;(

  80. Jim, Todd, and Leslie,
    Carol was always such a warm person. She always took time to say hello and ask how we were doing. May she Rest In Peace. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
    Diona & Jerry Austill

  81. Jim, Leslie, Todd, and families,
    We are so very sorry for your loss. Carol was such a warm, kind, and loving person. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. May God give you comfort, strength, and peace.

    Heath & Terri (Turnquist) Nation

  83. Our deepest sympathy for your loss . Carol was a special person and we are all better people for having known her. Rest in God’s peace Carol

  84. I hold most of Miles City people live among or are descendants of legends who will live forever and ever and ever and ever in the eternity of Heaven. Thirty-four (34) years ago when Ship passed away Jim became my almost adoptive father. Jim Lucas did a great many things for me; I mean a great many. He provided with Dad and Mom my moderate wealth; he and Dennis Mullen kept me out of prison; and, Jim and Carol Lucas were day for day the epitome of what married couples are always supposed to be.
    I do not know how to explain this. Two (2) of the most wonderful women on the small planet coached me that I must establish a routine to enjoy the culture and provisions of the Alberta Bair Theatre in Billings; Mary Shipley and Carol Lucas.
    I am quite sure after twenty-two (22) years of quiet time, thinking and reflecting my wonderful mom, I know that I know she and Carol never discussed this one (1) small item, not ever one (1) time.
    These two (2) women and mothers and” Legends of Miles City”…………….were connected in special ways we the living now will only be taught when we graduate as they have.
    Holy Father GOD loved women…………this is why He made so many as absolutely PERFECT as Carol Lucas.

  85. To my second mom. Words cannot say how much I will miss you. However, you will NEVER be forgotten. Thank you for being such a beautiful person inside and out. To the rest of the Lucas family. I love you all and may God give you strength and peace in this time.

  86. Leslie and family,
    I am so sorry to hear the passing of your mom. I will always remember her infectious smile and whenever I visited my family and saw her, she always took the time to say hello to me. I was so grateful that she and your Dad attended my mom’s vigil when she passed over ten years ago. It was comforting to have them there. My mother always enjoyed visiting with your mother. Your mom was a typical Butte girl who was friendly and a beautiful person. I know how much you will miss her knowing how close you were to her and how difficult the void will be. Remember the good times.May eternal rest be granted unto your mom, let perpetual light shine upon her and may she rest in peace.

  87. So sorry to hear of Carol’s passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
    Mike & Beth Correll

  89. I extend my deeply felt sympathy at the loss of Carol. In my memory, she was one of the most beautiful women of Miles City, both in person and in spirit.

    Jean Failing, now of Quitman GA, submitted by her daughter, Susan Whitson

  90. Jim and family,
    So sorry to learn of your loss. Carol was indeed a very special lady. Our thoughts and prayers to all.

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