Ivan Tucker

Ivan Tucker, age 86, of Russell County, Kentucky, passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at Fair Oaks Nursing and Rehabilitation in Jamestown, Kentucky, where he had been a resident for the last two years.

He was born in the Parks Ridge community of Russell County on Monday, June 13, 1938, to Vernada Foster and Elijah “Giddy” Tucker.  He worked for the Formica Corporation of Cincinnati, Ohio, where had worked until he was forced to retire due to illness.  Ivan was a fiercely independent and a very private person who kept to himself.  He was a man of extreme contrast, in that he could be stern and hard, or easy-going and compassionate toward a friend.  He had an iron will and an absolute commitment to attaining his goals in life!

He was a keen observer of people, events and things- and could sum up his thoughts about each with just a few words, if asked!  Ivan enjoyed Elvis Presley music, liked fast cars and talking with friends while sitting in the shade, and drinking coffee.  He enjoyed the attention of the staff at Fair Oaks, who called him “Smiley” and gave him good care while he was there!  Ivan professed Jesus as his Savior.

He is survived by a son, Steve (and Anita) Tucker, of Nancy, Kentucky; a sister, Belva Sue Tucker Thomas, of Russell Springs; a brother, Joe M. Tucker, of Cincinnati, Ohio; two grandchildren, Joshua S. (and Chelsea) Tucker, of Elsmere, Kentucky, and Kyra N. (and Michael) Henderson, of Nicholasville, Kentucky; and his three great-grandchildren.

Along with his parents, Ivan is preceded in death by his four sisters, Lil Smith, May Dalton, Juanita Stevens and Helen Robertson; as well as two brothers, R. B. Tucker and Larry Tucker.

He leaves behind several nieces and nephews, the Hill Family of the Esto community of Russell County, and a very special place in the hearts of his friends.

Funeral services are 2:00 p.m. CST, Monday August 19, 2024, at Bernard Funeral Home, with Bro. Bill Mullins officiating.  Interment will follow in Crockett Cemetery.

Visitation will be held after 12:00 noon CST, Monday, until the time of funeral services. 

Arrangements for Mr. Ivan Tucker have been entrusted to Bernard Funeral Home.  An online guestbook is available at www.bernardfuneralhome.com

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