Jeffrey C. Lucas, 66, a longtime resident of Hyde Park, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on February 21, 2026, at Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital in Poughkeepsie.

Born on July 15, 1959, in Poughkeepsie, he was the son of Charles J. and Shirley M. Long Lucas. His father predeceased him in 2022, and his mother survives in Hyde Park.

Jeff received his bachelor's degree from SUNY IT in Utica, NY. He began his career as a Lead Sewer Plant Operator for CAMO Pollution Control in Poughkeepsie, followed by a position at IBM in East Fishkill. In August of 1985, Jeff suffered a spinal cord injury as the result of a diving accident. He later continued working for IBM for a short time following his injury. Throughout his life, Jeff refused to let his injury define him. His determination, independence, and spirit remained unwavering.

His lifelong passion for the outdoors was what motivated Jeff throughout his life. Jeff loved hunting, fishing, and birding. He was a member of the Stone Church Fishing Club in Hyde Park; the National Wild Turkey Federation; the Ralph T. Waterman Bird Club; and Physically Challenged Bowhunters of America. He was also an honorary member of the Crum Elbow Sportsmen's Association in Hyde Park.

In addition to his mother, Jeff is survived by his lifelong partner, Loretta M. Hill of Hyde Park; and his stepchildren, Dr. Jessica Steere (Daniel) of Severn, MD, Patrick Cullen (Kerrianne) of Lakewood Ranch, FL, and Allison Hill Hudson (Peter) of East Greenbush, NY.

He is also survived by his sister, Patricia M. Houston (Colin) of Boiceville, NY; his brother, Steve Lucas (Maureen) of Orange County, NY; and his nieces and nephew, John Lucas of the Bronx, Emily Gasperini (Dr. Daniel) of Newburgh, and Hannah Lucas (fiancé, Evan Pokrandt) of Brooklyn. He leaves behind his great-niece and great-nephew, Cece and Ernie Gasperini.

Last, but certainly not least, Jeff is survived by his beloved canine companion, Findlay, who brought him immeasurable comfort and companionship.

Calling hours will be held from 4 to 7 PM on Wednesday, February 25th, at Sweet's Funeral Home, Rte. 9, Hyde Park.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Fr. Zeverin Emagalit at 10 AM on Thursday, February 26th at Regina Coeli Church, Route 9, Hyde Park. A reception will follow.

Burial will be private and at the convenience of the family in St. Peter's Cemetery, Poughkeepsie.

In lieu of flowers, Jeff's family respectfully requests memorial donations to the Hope for Heroes Foundation, PO Box 152, Billings, NY 12510 (www.heroeshope.org); Stone Church Fishing Club, ℅ Steve Eckelman, 28 Reservoir Rd. Staatsburg, NY 12580; or the Ralph T. Waterman Bird Club, c/o 16 Calkinstown Rd., Sharon, CT 06069 (www.watermanbirdclub.org).

To send an online condolence or for directions, please visit Jeff's obituary page at www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.