James H. Tucker

He was born on February 27, 1928 to Herman William Tucker and Erma Gertrude Tucker in Yoakum, Texas. James had a twin brother who died at birth. James is survived by his wife of 62 years, Erma Jean Tucker, his four children, Russell Tucker and wife Karen Tucker, Steve Tucker, Stanley Tucker and wife Bonnie Tucker, Sandra Novak and husband Matthew Novak, eight grandchildren Travis Tucker, Christie Hunter and husband Daniel Hunter, Jason Tucker and wife Rachael Tucker, Deana Faggart and husband Brent Faggart, Holly Tucker, Jarod Tucker and four great grandchildren, Evan Hambrick, Aiden Hambrick, Riley Hunter and Peyton Hunter as well as many other family members.

James joined the United States Navy at the young age of 16 where he served his country on submarine duty. His love of people and service eventually led him to join the Houston Fire Department where he faithfully served for 50 years. The second longest service in history, before retiring as Captain. He developed many lifelong friends at the Fire Department and considered them his second family. He met his one and only love in 1952 at after many attempts to win Jean’s favor, he gave her an engagement ring on their first date and they finally married a year later on June 9, 1953. Their undying love, devotion to one another and family, and their loving relationship is well known. They were an inspiration to all of us and admired by those who knew them.

His life was centered on his family and those around him. He loved hunting, fishing and a loyal Houston Astros fan. James coached the boys’ Little League baseball teams. Served as Chief Umpire, as well as Little League Board of Directors. He and Jean have lived in the Southeast Houston Home for their entire marriage. They loved cooking and entertaining many family events including Weddings, Showers, Christmas, Thanksgiving and Birthdays were held in their warm and loving home. James was the rock and strength of the family. His calmness, strength, generosity and good humor was unsurpassed and the glue that kept the family together. He will be missed but remembered in all of our hearts.

A Christian Celebration of Life will be held at Forest Park Lawndale Funeral Home on February 24, 2015 at 10:30 am in the Chapel of Angels. A visitation will be held on February 23, 2015 from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm in the Family Chapel. In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests with appreciation donations to the HFD Honor Guard.