Robert Eugene "Gene" Lucas

Robert Eugene "Gene" Lucas, a beloved member of the Galveston community, passed away peacefully in his home on January 8, 2025, at the age of 99. Gene's remarkable life was defined by his unwavering commitment to his city, his extraordinary career, his generosity of spirit and his dedication to his family. 

Born in 1925 in Maybrook, Virginia, Gene was the eldest of seven siblings and grew up on a farm. His upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and a deep sense of responsibility. Known for his homegrown tomatoes, Gene became the island’s most famous amateur tomato grower, a testament to his love for cultivating and nurturing both plants and people. 

At the age of 15, after an eight mile walk up a mountain, Gene began his career in hospitality at Mountain Lake Lodge in Virginia. It was there that he met William L. Moody, Jr.,  a pivotal figure who offered Gene the opportunity to work in Galveston, Texas. Following his high school graduation, Gene made the journey to Galveston with a change of clothes and just enough money for a bus ticket home. He quickly proved himself, earning his first $25 in tips on his first night working at the Buccaneer Hotel, cementing his future and path in Galveston and the hospitality industry. 

At 17, Gene joined the Merchant Marines, fueling tankers in the South Pacific during World War II. His service took him to New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Brisbane, Australia, and Aruba. At 18, he was aboard the first oil tanker to pass through the Panama Canal. After his military service, he returned to work for the Moody family, beginning a lifelong association with their enterprises. His career took him across the United States, overseeing various aspects of hotel operations until he made Galveston headquarters his home. One of the properties was the historic Hotel Washington in Washington, D.C. where Gene met his future wife, Betty Banks. They were married in 1954. They enjoyed 62 years of marriage and raised two daughters, Margaret and Linda.

Gene’s career with the Moody family spanned 82 years. He became President of Gal-Tex Corporation in 1971, overseeing iconic properties such as the Hotel Washington and The Historic Menger Hotel in San Antonio, among others. He was instrumental in the planning and building of Moody Gardens as well. Throughout his career, Gene was admired as a mentor, a loyal friend, and a father figure to countless employees. 

Gene’s contributions extended far beyond his professional achievements. He served on the Galveston Park Board for 15 years, including 4 years as chairman, and, along with Mike Gaido, Jack Bushong, was instrumental successfully lobbying to establish the HOT Tax, creating an ongoing stream of revenue that  promotes tourism and benefits the City of Galveston today.  He also served as a city councilman, a director of the Railroad Museum, and held numerous leadership roles within the Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, Gene spent 39 years on the Board of Directors of the American National Insurance Company and served as a director for its subsidiary entities. 

Known for his boundless generosity, Gene often helped others quietly and without fanfare. Many community members recount stories of how he co-signed loans, supported students’ educations, or stepped in to assist during times of need. His kindness and selflessness left a lasting impact on countless lives. 

In addition to his professional and civic accomplishments, Gene was a cherished family man. He leaves behind a loving family who will remember him as a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Gene’s warmth, wisdom, and integrity were an inspiration to all who knew him. He is survived by his two daughters and their families; daughter Margret Lucas Norman and husband Mike Norman of Galveston and their sons, Cameron Snyder (Christine), Corbin Snyder (Aryn), Kevin Zudima (Dana) Brian Norman (Lynn) and daughters Kim Brown (Josh) and Jessica Norman; and daughter, Linda Lucas Rutherford and husband, John Rutherford of Galveston and their daughters, Victoria Rutherford (Brett Halleman) and Casey Rutherford. Also surviving Gene are his sisters Norma Hill and Peggy Nickles of Virginia, and  great grandchildren Kennedy, Colt,  Olive, Nate, Archer, Lyla and Emme.  

The family would like to thank “Team Gene”; Priscilla Murphy, Malea Harvey, Keith Teagle, Angela Milburn Thomas, Maria Goffney, Millicent Stephens and Phyllis Moore for their kind and loving care to Gene these last years.  They are truly extraordinary, and our lives are all better for having them become a part of our circle of family and friends. 

Gene Lucas’ legacy is one of hard work, compassion, and a profound love for his community. His contributions to Galveston and the people who loved him will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come. A memorial service will be held to honor his life and contributions on February 20, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Moody Gardens Hotel.  If you are proposing a toast in his honor, please make sure it is with Jack Daniels (Old No. 7), as those who know him well know there is no other alternative suitable for the occasion. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Galveston College Foundation, Gene Lucas Memorial Hospitality Scholarship (4015 Avenue Q, Galveston, Texas 77550) to  continue Gene’s tradition of giving back to the community he cherished so dearly. 

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