I'll be honest with you, I'm not sure I've ever read an issue with Lois' mother. I did see her on Lois & Clark tv show, but that's about it. Actually, I take that back. There was a Post-COIE one where Sam was awful and embarrassing her and his daughters at a meal. I seem to remember that he was being written rather differently in Action Comics and Superman at the time.
For Sam Lane, I like the general. But not the evil general that launches false flag attacks and kills innocent citizens or is a war-monger. Rather one who simply doesn't trust Superman. Not thinks Superman is evil. Just doesn't extend trust to him. Rather like the first time I remember perceiving him in Rebirth (when Jon and Lois thought Clark might tell him secret). To him Superman is alien, unknowable, and a potential threat. Not a definite threat. Not someone he hates. Just someone you should be cautious around and have a defense against, should it become necessary. Of course, I wasn't counting his post-COIE characterization there, and hadn't seen anything else with him in N52/Rebirth at the time.
I've only read scattered Lucy. Don't really want her to be evil, either. Familiar with movie and tv versions. Though I certainly can see merit in the idea of her as someone less focused/driven than Lois who takes longer to find her way. Mostly because I believe almost everyone is less focused/driven than Lois. Don't really care for "dad was tough on Lois/tried to force her into a mold, because he wanted a boy, but better with Lucy" setup of at least early-post-COIE. Actually, I'd discard the wanting-a-boy bit probably. I have read some of her in the bronze age when Jimmy was dating Jennifer Owens and she wanted him back. I'm vaguely familiar with what happened with Ron, but haven't read it. Actually, if anyone who likes Lucy could recommend an era to read, I'll check it out.