A Life Well-Lived: Remembering Lucille (Lucy) Gagnon

Lucille "Lucy" Rhoda Boyles Smith Gagnon, a vibrant and determined soul known for her resilience and infectious energy, passed away at home on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 27, 2025, at the age of 92.

Born in Waynesboro, Mississippi, on July 1, 1933, Lucy's early life on a cotton and peanut farm instilled in her the hard-working spirit and resilience that defined her. Accustomed to both hard labor and the adventure of being on the move, she embraced every chapter of her life. With her first husband, Robert Wayne Smith (U.S.A. Air Force), Lucy began a life of travel. They were stationed in places like Texas and England, raising a family of two sons and two daughters. After Robert retired, they moved to Florida to be near his brother, and it was there that Robert passed away. Fate, in its kindness, offered Lucy a second chance at love. She met her soulmate, James "Jim" Maurice Gagnon—a fellow U.S.A. Air Force member—on a memorable Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 1969. They shared exactly 56 years together. They married and welcomed their son, Nick, continuing their adventurous life with assignments that took them from Florida to California and Spain, before ultimately settling in Newnan, Georgia, where they created a comfortable and beautiful home. Lucy was wonderfully outgoing and feisty, widely known for her generosity and warmth. People were naturally drawn to her, knowing they could talk to her about anything and everything. She loved all genres of music and was a talented dancer. Her favorite pursuits included the domestic arts of cooking and quilting, as well as fun-filled pastimes like playing bingo and working on puzzles. She particularly enjoyed cookouts and a cold beer, was an avid collector from thrift stores, an excellent cook and gardener, and was a passionate animal lover, especially cherishing her beloved dogs, Bibite and Holly.

The family extends its deepest gratitude to her husband and soulmate, Jim, who served as Lucy's loving caregiver and companion during her final years, navigating the challenges of congestive heart failure and dementia. We also wish to express heartfelt thanks to Brightmoor Hospice for their compassionate service, especially to nurses Shannon, Earl, and Kaleesha, whose light and gentle touch provided great comfort.

Lucy is dearly missed by her devoted husband, Jim; her three sons and two daughters; her sister, Joanne Busby; and her cherished friends, Tonya and Nancy.

Higgins Funeral Home Hillcrest Chapel is honored to serve the family of Lucille "Lucy" Gagnon, please visit www.hillcrestchapelcares.com to share your memories or leave a condolence message.