Pastor Hugh Lackey Jr.

Elmer Hugh Lackey, 77, passed away on January 21, 2023 in Poinciana, FL. He was born in New Church, VA on June 19, 1945 to Elmer Hugh Lackey Sr. and Virginia Sparrow Lackey. He grew up in Meadville, PA, graduated from Meadville Sr. High School and Youngstown University. On June 29, 1968, Hugh married the love of his life Linda Beth Howarth. They resided in New Jersey where they lived for over 20 years, moved to Massachutes and Rhode Island, and happily settled in Florida. Where they have enjoyed their golden years in the warm state of Florida for almost 20 years. Hugh will be deeply missed by his wife of 55 years, Beth, his children Kristen Lackey, Karen Lackey Ours, and Brian Ours, and his granddaughter, Faythe Ours. He is survived by his sister Ann Williams and his brother Jack Lackey. He was preceded in death by his sister Sandy Coleman, and His parents, Elmer and Virginia Lackey. Hugh served as a 1st lieutenant in the US army as a military police officer during Vietnam. His business career began at Lipton Tea, helping returning veterans seeking employment. He later transitioned into jewelry manufacturing with John C Nordt, Krementz, Town and Country and Calibri where he became Vice President of Operations. Throughout his career, Hugh traveled extensively to China, Thailand, Israel and England. While traveling overseas, he also began his schooling at Conwell Gordon Seminary, where he achieved his true calling as a pastor. He then served at the First Presbyterian Church of Lake Mary & Sanford where he remained for over 10 years and later at the First Presbyterian Church of Saint Cloud, retiring in June 2022. Hugh was incredibly generous with his time, money, and possessions. Hugh volunteered at Eastside Elementary, during the time his wife taught there, helping with the food pantry and clothing distribution. He expanded his ministry with Hope N Literacy International Foundation. Its purpose is to advance the religious and academic education of the children and adults of Haiti. Hugh even took several trips to Haiti (even against family’s wishes at times). Hugh was consistently on the go, always helping his family, friends, and his church. Hugh enjoyed Disney world and cruising. He had a love of flowers and his gardens. He even tested roses for Jackson and Perkins. He sent flowers to friends and spoiled his girls with flowers. When they were young they would find a rose by their bed on Saturday morning. Hugh was a lover of Ice cream, enjoying a bowl most evenings and even some mornings. He believed that ANYTHING could be cured with PRAYER and ICE CREAM. Hugh faced many health challenges, which tried to slow him down. However, He continued to do God’s work and touch the lives of many until the end. There will be a service for Pastor Hugh at First Presbyterian Church of St. Cloud on February 18th at 2:00 pm. Hugh was a huge supporter of Hope N Literacy International Foundation and its work in Haiti. Please contact them at hopenliteracy.org to make contributions in Hugh’s name if you wish to honor him that way.

Pastor Hugh Lackey Jr.

June 19, 1945 - January 21, 2023