Vivian Thomas Tucker Hammond

Vivian Thomas Tucker Hammond was born on January 19, 1938, in Pinehurst, North Carolina, to parents Grace Thomas Tucker and Vivian Tucker.

She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Edward Hammond, daughter Maria Hammond Tuttle (Brian) of Wilmington, NC, and a grandson, Colin Tucker Tuttle of Tuscaloosa, AL.

Vivian called the Sandhills of North Carolina her home, where she was active in her church youth group, Girls Scouts, and the 4-H Program. She earned numerous 4-H state and national awards, including college scholarships. Vivian graduated as the salutatorian of her West End High School class in 1956. She continued her studies in home economics and food science, graduating from Woman’s College (now UNCG) in 1960.

After graduation, Vivian worked for the NC Cooperative Extension Program in Robeson County for four years, at a time when serving a multi-racial community was challenging yet rewarding. She transferred to Wake County, where she continued to work in extension service and food science at North Carolina State University. Subsequent employment included hosting a cooking show on WRAL-TV, serving as a NC State Fair judge in textiles and food, and as the executive secretary/treasurer of the NC American Legion Auxiliary.

The Sandhills remained an integral part of Vivian’s life. Until her death, she collected Seagrove pottery, enjoyed Auman’s summer peaches, and maintained land which served for hosting fox hunts.

Often referred to as a steel magnolia, Vivian was a true southern lady. She had the gift of talking with anyone, anywhere, about anything; her warm smile pulled you in and left you fulfilled. She served her family, friends, church, and veterans with love, grace, and humility.

A Celebration of Life will be held at White Plains United Methodist Church, Cary, NC, on December 13, 2025, at 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to the Friends Sunday School class for its “Coats for the Children” annual project, White Plains United Methodist Church, 313 SE Maynard Road, Cary, NC 27511.