Ernest Ray Tucker was born in Summerset, Kentucky, on November 27, 1923 to Manie and Litton Tucker. Tuck, eager to follow in his father’s footsteps, joined the military just after graduation from high school. In the army, Tuck found his calling. After marrying his wife, Ruth, in 1946, they traveled the world together, going from base to base during assignments. They welcomed their son, John, in 1949, and their daughter, Virginia, in 1952. Tuck served in the 517th Parachute Infantry Regiment with the 82nd Airborne Division. He was awarded the Bronze Star for his bravery and courage during the Battle of the Bulge. One of Tuck’s proudest moments was meeting General George Patton. Tuck remained in the army after the war, and later served in Korea.
Tuck retired to civil service in 1965. In 1972, Tuck and Ruth bought a small house in Imperial, Missouri, on 10 acres. He then spent four years building his dream home for his family. When his son John started a family, Tuck then built them a home right next door. Tuck loved being outside on his property with his beloved horse, Christine and his grandchildren. Tuck was an active member of St. Luke’s United Church of Christ. He was a prolific photographer, for which his family is just as grateful as he said we would be.
Tuck was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Ruth; his son, John; his daughter, Virginia; and best friends, Proctor and Tillie Rankin. His is survived by his sister, Helen Garrison; his niece, Susan Garrison; his granddaughter, Rachel Donoho and her husband Shawn; his grandson, James Tucker(Keli Williams); and his great grandsons, Easton and Ahmi Donoho. He treasured friendship, and has left behind his constant companion, Charlie Smith (Diane), as well as his dear friends Herbert and Charlotte Conway, Alan and Nicole Taylor, and Mary Rankin.
Visitation to be held at Hoffmeister South County Chapel, 1515 Lemay Ferry Road, St. Louis, Missouri on Wednesday, October 24, 2018 from 11:00 a.m. until time of service at 1:00 p.m. Interment Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Disabled American Veterans appreciated. Condolences may be offered at www.hoffmeistersouthcounty.com.
