Gregory Kent Tucker Sr.

January 23, 1954 – October 4, 2026

Gregory Kent Tucker Sr. was born on January 23, 1954, in Hampton, Virginia, to Virginia Blake Tucker and Frederic Leslie Tucker. He attended Bethel High School, where he played baseball as a teenager. An avid baseball enthusiast throughout his life, Gregory remained incredibly proud of his playing days and continued to talk about his time on the mound well into his later years. His passion for the game never faded, and he especially enjoyed watching University of Virginia (UVA) baseball.

Gregory dedicated much of his life to serving his country through a distinguished military career. He began his military service in the United States Marine Corps as a Military Police officer, serving alongside his partner, Panzer. Following his service in the Marine Corps, he continued his military career in the United States Army, where he advanced to the rank of Chief Warrant Officer Three (CW3).

During his Army career, Gregory served as a Black Hawk helicopter pilot, a role in which he took tremendous pride. His accomplishments as a pilot were among the most significant achievements of his life, and he remained proud of his military service and the experiences he gained throughout his career.

Gregory resided in Charlottesville, Virginia, and enjoyed spending his time doing the things that brought him happiness. In addition to his lifelong love of baseball, he enjoyed saltwater fishing from the pier. He spent many days and nights fishing at Grandview Pier, enjoying his time by the water. His love of fishing, like his passion for baseball, remained an important part of his life. Gregory was also devoted to his cat, Odie, who held a very special place in his life.

Gregory was preceded in death by his mother, Virginia Blake Tucker; his father, Frederic Leslie Tucker; and his sister, Janice Searles.

He is survived by his brothers, Fred Tucker and Kenny Tucker; his daughter, Rhea Lewis; his sons, Gregory Tucker Jr. and Patrick Tucker; and seven grandchildren.

Gregory Kent Tucker Sr. leaves behind a legacy of distinguished military service, personal accomplishment, and a lifelong passion for baseball and fishing. From his early days on the baseball field at Bethel High School to his proud years serving as a Black Hawk pilot in the United States Army, and the many days and nights he spent fishing at Grandview Pier, his life was marked by memorable experiences and pursuits that held special meaning to him.

Semper Fi. His service is complete, his watch is over, and his legacy endures.