It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother,
grandmother, and great-grandmother, Lurlene “Tilly” Howell Lucius who passed away
peacefully on February 17, 2025, at the age of 79. She was born and raised in Potts
Camp, Mississippi, and resided in Olive Branch, Mississippi.
Born on March 8, 1945, Lurlene lived a life full of love, kindness, and unwavering
devotion to her family. She was the proud and loving mother of three children Ricky
Gandy (Donna), Cindy Smith and Randall Gandy (Lauri). She was also the proud
grandmother of six Ashton, Olivia, Madison, Lindsey, Clayton, Shannon and a great-
grandmother of one precious great-grandson Kayn. Her greatest joy was spending time
with her family, creating lasting memories filled with laughter, wisdom, and warmth.
Lurlene will be remembered for her generous spirit, her nurturing heart, and the
countless ways she made the world brighter for those around her. She was a pillar of
strength and love, always putting others before herself and offering guidance and
support to all who needed it. In her earlier years she enjoyed traveling where she went
on a European tour, Royal Caribbean cruise, Niagara Falls and Hawaii. She also
enjoyed camping and fishing at Enid and Sardis Lake. They made a cross-country trip
to Arizona and went to the Grand Canyon and visited family.
She leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and kindness that will live on through her
children, grandchildren, and great-grandson. While she will be deeply missed, her
memory will forever remain in our hearts, and we find comfort in knowing she is now at
peace in the loving arms of Jesus.
She was preceded in death by her parents Lester and Juanita Howell, her siblings
Maurine Hill, Doogie Howell, Elaine Hardison, Ernie Howell, Karen Turner and her
husband Earl Lucius.
A celebration of Lurlene’s life will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Holly
Springs Funeral Home in Holly Springs, MS. Visitation 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. Service
starts at 12:00 pm. She will be laid to rest at Temperance Hill Baptist Church at Potts
Camp, MS.
Rest in peace, Mom. Your love will guide us always.