Obituary of Gerald B. Tucker

Gerald B. "Jerry" Tucker, 88 of Girard, IL, passed away Wednesday, June 12, 2024, at Carlinville Rehab and Health Care Center in Carlinville, IL. Gerald was born on May 6, 1936, in Farmersville, IL, of William Jennings Bryan and Lucy (Meyer) Tucker. Jerry graduated from Girard High School with the class of 1953. He married Shirley Joann Miller on August 28, 1956 in Honolulu, HI. He served in the Navy during the Korean War and was very proud of his country. Jerry and Shirley shared 63 years of marriage; their dedication to each other was unwavering and a true test of time. Jerry was a lifelong farmer and found passion in caring for his plants and animals. Working in his garden brought much joy, especially when he would share the fruits of his labor with those around him. He also had an avid love for hunting, golfing, sports and the occasional lottery ticket. Being outdoors with his sons and grandsons were some of his fondest memories. Jerry is a past president of the Quarterback Club and announced the Girard High School football games for over 15 years. He also coached little league baseball and found happiness in giving back to his community. Jerry led a very social life. Being on the parish council for several years, he was well-known and extremely active in his church community. He also held leadership roles within the Oakleaf Country Club and stayed active in the Girard Alumni Association. To those who knew him, generosity was never a question. Jerry was known for offering his time and money to those who needed it or as a simple act of kindness. He was extremely loyal to his faith, family, and friends and will be greatly missed. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Shirley, son, Christopher T. Tucker, daughter, Rebecca J. Tucker, and eight siblings. Jerry is survived by son, Scott (Kelly) Tucker of Middletown, IL, grandson, Cody (Kaitlyn) Tucker of Sherman, IL, granddaughter, Katie (Dillon) Lemenager of Middletown, IL, and grandson, Ty (Regan) Tucker of Lincoln, IL. His four great-grandchidlren Easton Tucker, Hudson Tucker, Hadley Tucker, and Bailey Lemenager held a special place in his heart. Also surviving are brother David (Carol) Tucker of Rocky River, OH, sister, JoAnn Rettburg of Macedonia, OH, mother-in-law, Mary Lois Miller, sisters-in-law, Gwen Tucker, Karen Mosello and Joann Miller, along with several nieces and nephews. A special thanks to Marlin Jackson and Bobby Tucker for their years of loyalty and support towards Jerry and his family. Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 27, 2024, 9:00 to 10:00 am at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Girard, IL. Funeral Services will follow at 10:00 am, Thursday, June 27, 2024 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, Girard, IL. Burial will follow in Girard Cemetery, Girard, IL. Memorials may be made to St. Patrick's Catholic Church or Girard Fire and Rescue. Please visit www.davisandersonfuneralhome.com to leave condolences or light a candle in memory. Davis-Anderson Funeral Home, Girard is in charge of arrangements.