Charles Elijah Tucker

Charles Tucker passed away Tuesday, March 10, 2020 in Tampa, Florida. He was born in Alapaha, Berrien County, Georgia on May 20,1930 to Gilbert and Mary Karl Crumbley Tucker. He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Bragg Tucker and three children from his previous marriage: Charlene Anise Terry (Randy) of Murphy, NC, Karla Jones, and Charles (Charlie) Gilbert Tucker of Land o’ Lakes, FL; 3 stepchildren: Brenda, Richard and Gail; 6 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; and one sister, Shirley Tucker Souto of Franklin, NC. Charles was preceded in death by his parents; his daughter, Joy Anita Strickland; and an infant grandchild.

Charles graduated from Jefferson High School in Tampa, FL. He was manager of The John Deere Franchise in Ybor City and became the City's Alcalde, honorary mayor, in 1963. Charles was a Mason and Shriner. In the 80’s, he became a member of First Christian Church of Tampa. When the FCC congregation moved to Brandon, Charles & Carolyn found a new church home at Forest Hills Presbyterian Church.

Charles was a second generation citrus grower and was a leader in environmental and water conservation issues in the state of Florida. He was a gifted landscaper who took pride in and meticulous care of his homes.

Charles and Carolyn were world travelers in their retirement years. They visited six of the seven continents. They rode elephants in Thailand, rickshaws in China, camels in Egypt, and rapids on the Snake river in Washington state. Of all the places they traveled, his favorite was the Hot Air Balloon Festival in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

Charles will always be remembered for his friendliness, quick wit and infectious smile. He loved a good joke and a good laugh. He was outgoing and enjoyed meeting new people.