Lucette J. Held

Lucette J. Held, née Fudaley, of Lemont, Illinois, passed away peacefully on March 9, 2026, at the age of 81. She was surrounded by her husband of 60 years, Robert G. Held, and her loving children. Born in Chicago to Solly and Irene Fudaley, Lucette grew up attending Clara Barton Elementary School and Maria High School before studying chemistry at Northern Illinois University. She earned a master’s degree in chemical education and taught as a professor of chemistry at South Suburban Community College for 31 years.

Lucette was a devoted member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, where she played in the bell choir, participated in spiritual fitness groups, and attended Bible study. She found joy in tennis, golf, and bowling, and expressed her creativity through calligraphy, quilting, sewing, and playing the piano. A longtime member of the PEO Sisterhood, she also founded a book club that remained active for 25 years and cherished the many friendships she cultivated throughout her life.

Above all, Lucette found deepest fulfillment as a mother and grandmother. She is survived by her husband Robert, her children Steven (Elizabeth Kurr) Held, Gregory (Tracy) Held, and Patrice (Robert) Neubert, and her beloved grandchildren Clara and Ellory Neubert and Sara and Ethan Held. Her quiet strength, intellectual curiosity, and warm presence will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.