of North Little Rock, AR
August 20, 1925 - November 14, 2020
William A. "Bill" Tucker, 95, passed away on November 14, 2020. He was born in Guy, Arkansas, on August 20, 1925, to the late Nora (Sellers) and James Alvis Tucker. His parents died within months of each other when Bill was 14 and he and his two younger sisters went to live with eldest sister Atalea, whom they always regarded as a mother.
Bill was preceded in death by wife Betty Tucker; his first wife Cora Lea (Karber) Tucker, mother of his children; son Ronald C. Tucker; sisters Atalea Tanner, Melba Lane and Lois Jefchak, all of California, and brother Marvin Tucker of Michigan. Survivors include son Gary Tucker and daughter, Marilyn Cuffman (Phillip), all of Maumelle; daughter-in-law Kaye Tucker of Benton; grandchildren, Jeff Tucker (Kay) of Shreveport, Trisha Betts (Russell) of Benton, Chris Youngblood (Amy) of Cabot, Daniel Youngblood (Lauren) of North Little Rock, and Spencer Cuffman of Little Rock. Great-grandchildren are Parker and Adam Betts, Alissa Tucker, Mary Rose, William, Jack Henry, and Anna Youngblood. He is also survived by many beloved nieces and nephews.
He was a member of Central Baptist Church in North Little Rock where he sang in the senior choir. He greatly enjoyed his time in the choir and badly missed being able to attend church in recent years due to his health.
Bill served as a rifleman in the 104th Infantry Division (Timberwolves) during WWII, and was severely wounded while fighting in Belgium in November, 1944. This injury, primarily to his arm, was initially treated by a German surgeon, a POW, who was able to save the arm. Bill was hospitalized for 18 months as he recovered from his wounds and always credited God for his recovery and return to the U.S. He received numerous citations and medals for his service but was proudest of his Purple Heart. He was also very proud of his service to his country and would often attend gatherings of his WWII division.
After his recovery, Bill attended college on the G.I. Bill and graduated from Arkansas State Teacher's College with a teaching degree, later obtaining a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education. He began his teaching career in Quitman and Guy, moving to North Little Rock in 1960 to become a principal in the North Little Rock School District, a position from which he retired in 1987.
Bill enjoyed his retirement years and stayed busy and traveled a good deal. He took pleasure in maintaining a meticulous lawn and flower beds. He was an avid, life-long Razorback and St. Louis Cardinals fan. His greatest pleasure, though, was playing his guitar and singing, recording his music for the enjoyment of family and friends.
A private service is being held by the family. All attendees are required to provide and wear a face mask. Interment will be at Arkansas State Veteran's Cemetery.
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19 Condolence(s)
Peggy Ann Lamb(Lois Tucker Lambs eldest daughter
Thursday, February 17, 2022
Sorry to finally hear regarding Uncle WA's death. Living in California, we cousins hardly hear any information about Mom's (lois Lamb)Family. If you could contact me, I'm trying to search mom's family. Or get me in touch with someone with the family bible. I would really like to get to know mom's family.Maybe we can meet in the future. 909-780-6303-5401 Ironwood St., San Bernardino Ca 92404
Patsy Scruggs Hatch
Wednesday, July 7, 2021
I went to McRae school where he was my Principal. I can remember in the 3rd grade he was helping the class understand the process of division and multiplication . He had us all take our shoes off to explain. It was the best explanation. We were all able to do well in class after his demonstration. I will always remember him.
I retired from an X-ray Education.
Patsy Scruggs-Hatch
Martin) Deckard
Tuesday, December 8, 2020
I'm sorry to hear about we He was ONE OVE
So sorry to here about W A. Just found out about 30 minutes ago he toLd me that he named Marilyn after me.
R
Ronnie Moore
Tuesday, December 8, 2020
To the family and friends of Bill Tucker, God's comfort and strength during this time.
Mr. Tucker was a parent of my good friend Marilyn when we were teens at Faith Missionary Baptist church in the early 70's. Then for many years we attended Central Baptist together. Bill was also a neighbor of mine on Indianhead Dr. in Sherwood where I always felt he had the best looking yard and would have received an award if they would have given one out!
David Cox
Monday, November 30, 2020
Mr. Tucker was my principal at McRae Elementary from 1962-1968. I thought he was one of the kindest men I've ever known. A friend to every student, a fair but strict disciplinarian when necessary, and always a wise and respected leader. I was so fortunate to know him.
I offer my sincerest condolences to his family and friends.
Rick Glover
Monday, November 23, 2020
I attended McRae elementary and he was the principal. He was always in the hallway mingling with the students. There are some educators who just leave a lifelong memory with everyone. Prayers for the family.
Annie Tew/Tibbs
Monday, November 23, 2020
Mr Tucker was my Principal at McRae Elementary School in NLR for 5 years. He was kind and all the kids loved him. He always took time to talk with you, if you had a problem or just wanted to talk. He always had a great smile. Prayers for the family. He will truly be missed. I am 68 years old now, but I never forgot Mr. Tucker.
Woody Bohannan
Saturday, November 21, 2020
Bill was a great guy we worked together at Sears and he was always professional in his appearance, work ethics and was a friend to all of us.
Tina Lee
Saturday, November 21, 2020
Sending my deepest sympathy and much love to you, Marilyn, and your family. MY your sweet Daddy Rest In Peace.
Christine Crow
Saturday, November 21, 2020
So many of us remember him from McRae.So sorry for your lost he was a very kind man.God Bless
Cheryl Harvey Ripper
Friday, November 20, 2020
Mr. Tucker was principal at McRae while I attended there 1963-1969.
He was a kind, sweet man who always had a smile for everyone.
My heartfelt condolences to all of you.
Jim Grindstaff
Friday, November 20, 2020
My condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Tucker. He was the school principal when I attended McRae elementary 1969-1973. It was not unusual for him to strike up a conversation with students in the hallway and he always had a kind word to say. I respected him then and after reading about his life I have an even greater respect.
Jim Grindstaff
Orvid Wine
Thursday, November 19, 2020
I went to McRae from 1966 to 1972. I was always in the principal's office for something I did ! I think he really enjoyed his job. I haven't seen his picture in years but I recognized his smiling face.
Alice Jo (Tarkington) Fresquez
Thursday, November 19, 2020
I have many nice memories of Mr Tucker when he first came to be the Principal at McRae Elementary School. My dad, Lynn Tarkington, was Principal at Boone Park Elementary at that time. They became good friends and colleagues. Mr Tucker was always kind and thoughtful. He often took my dad and me from school to their Principal's meetings at the district office. I remember he was a good influence on many people. I offer my condolences to all who loved him.
Ken Partridge
Thursday, November 19, 2020
So sorry for your loss, Mr. Tucker was principal at McRae Elementary when I went there and he was a very kind /carrying young man. He helped me out on more than one occasion. I've never forgotten him for all his help.
Larry and Rita Tanner
Thursday, November 19, 2020
The last of that family generation. We loved and admired him very much.
Pat Wallis
Thursday, November 19, 2020
We are so sorry for your loss. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Pat and Mike
Kaye Fox
Wednesday, November 18, 2020
In my prayers. Love you lots!!!
Trisha Tucker Betts
Wednesday, November 18, 2020
I love you Grandad. â¤ï¸