Vanessa Marie York Lucas Gourley, 87, of Radford, passed away at her home Tuesday, July 7, 2026. She was born in Bolt, West Virginia on Nov. 7, 1938. Vanessa was the beloved wife of Eugene Vincent Gourley, Jr. of Radford. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master’s Degree in Art Education. A retired educator, Vanessa taught at Radford High School, Radford University and in Pulaski County. She was an active member of the Montgomery Museum and Auburn Baptist Church. Vanessa was passionate about animal rescue and served lovingly as a foster parent. A gifted artist, she worked in oils, watercolors, charcoal, jewelry design and stained glass.
Vanessa was the daughter of George Bernard York Jr. and Anna Mae McKinney York Kenley. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Dreama Sue York McCauley; and her first husband, Samuel Lucas.
She is survived by her husband, Eugene Vincent Gourley, Jr.; her brothers, David Michael York and Steven Victor York; her sister, Rosalee Hodges; her son, Samuel S. Lucas (Robin); her stepson, Eugene V. Gourley III; her daughters, Vanessa Morrison (Mike), Mary Kozar (Ken), and Anne Hughes (Kent Repass); and her stepdaughter, Kim Poole (Mark). She was a devoted grandmother to Christopher Morrison (Amy), James Morrison (Chassidy), Matthew Morrison (Caitlin), Lucas Edwards, John Lucas and Chadman Grey Gourley; and a loving grandmother to Victoria Atkins and Julia Evans (Bailey). She cherished her greatgrandchildren, Cara Morrison, Kingston Morrison, River Atkins, Reece Evans and Evelyn, Emma and Charlotte Poole; and also leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom she dearly loved.
Vanessa’s family was the light of her life, and she brought joy wherever she went. Her warm spirit, creativity, and vibrant presence made her the life of every gathering. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
The family received friends Monday, July 13, 2026, at the Mullins Funeral Home in Radford, followed by a funeral service with Shake Smith officiating. Burial followed in the Lucas Family Cemetery in Christiansburg.
Vanessa’s family is in the care of Mullins Funeral Home & Crematory.
