Gilbert Lee Rucker

Funeral services will be 12:30p.m., Friday, June 20, at Connally Compton Funeral Directors Chapel.

Burial will follow in Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, 3:00p.m., June 20, 2014.

Gilbert was born August 27, 1928 to William Clifton and Velma (Leopard) Rucker in Henderson, Texas. He served five years in the US Air Corps / Air Force as a veterinary tech. Gilbert was a devout Baha’i for over 50 years, holding many offices in the Baha’i faith. He was an avid chess player and a devout fisherman. Volunteering at nursing homes was one of his pastimes and he received the Volunteer of the Year twice. Gilbert was a commercial artist for Lacks for over 20 years as well as other stores like San Antonio Light and Express News.

He is preceded in death by his parents; son, Richard Rucker; grandson, John Rucker and daughter-in-law, Elizabeth Marie Rucker.

Survivors include his wife of over 65 years, Louise Rucker; children, Steven Rucker and Gilda Pace; spiritual son, Jon Knowlton; sister, Willie May Browning; seven grandchildren, seven great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Arrangements under the direction of Connally-Compton Funeral Directors, Waco, TX.