Lucille “ Lucy” Carter Cate-Falls

Mrs. Lucille “Lucy” Carter Cate-Falls, age 70, of Lansing, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025, at Ashe Memorial Hospital. Services will be private.

Lucy was born on September 8, 1955, to the late Gustavas and Genieve Goodyear Cate. She grew up in Calhoun, Georgia, and lived a life full of creativity, curiosity, and care for others.

 Lucy enjoyed gardening, sewing, and reading, and was especially gifted at reading The Hobbit aloud to her children, bringing the story to life in a way only she could.Lucy was a seamstress with the Goldsboro Ballet Company, a Certified North Carolina Master Gardener, and a dedicated high school science teacher. She proudly served in the Peace Corps in the Philippines from 1977 to 1979. Her love of learning and exploration was matched only by her love for family, her community, and her garden.Her baking and fried okra were family favorites, and she was known for her warm hospitality and quick wit. She loved National Geographic, a good book, and enjoyed relaxing with a scotch and water—or a Coors Light—at the end of the day.

Lucy is survived by her loving husband of 48 years, Lorenz Falls; two children, Lorenz Vassa Falls and wife Erica, and Eva Elizabeth Falls; and five beloved grandchildren, Liam Vassa Falls, Lyriel Alice Falls, Everett Dwane Falls, Emmett James Falls, and Eleanor Marie Falls. She was affectionately known to them as “Gangan.”Lucy’s love of nature, learning, and laughter will live on in all who knew her.

In honor of Lucy, memorial may be made to National Park Trust: https://parktrust.org/ways-to-support/

The Calhoun High School Class of 1973, sends our love and prayers to the family of our dear friend and classmate.

Thomas Funeral Home is honored to make this announcement for the family of Lucille “Lucy” Carter Cate-Falls.