Willard Thomas Tucker

Willard Thomas Tucker, 88, passed away Thursday, Aug. 22, 2013, at Mercy Hospital in Fort Scott, Kan. Willard rose from a humble beginning on a southeast Missouri farm, located at Tucker, Mo., to lofty heights as a highly valued senior official at the Department of Defense. He served his country with distinction throughout the length of the Cold War, winning many awards for superior performance in regard to highly-sensitive national security concerns. He retired after 30 years of distinguished service to America.

Willard was the devoted, loving husband of Betty Cox-Tucker for more than 63 years. He was also the revered father of Phillip Tucker, Ph.D., of Washington, D.C., and Teri Posey of Nevada. He leaves behind his brother, Ted Tucker, of Nevada and son-in-law, Chris Posey also of Nevada. He was a special "Uncle Willard" to several nieces and nephews. Last, but certainly not least, his cat, Tom-Tom, a loyal friend.

Before embarking upon his outstanding Department of Defense career, Willard was educated at Missouri colleges and began teaching in Ripley County, Mo. He served faithfully in the Merchant Marines during World War II. He married Betty on July 7, 1950, and they began their life together in St. Louis. They moved to Nevada in 2008.

Throughout his life, Willard demonstrated that he was a dynamic, well-liked and widely admired person, who possessed a great deal of personal integrity, compassion for all people, a great sense of humor and a kind nature that made him beloved by many, without exception. He was fortunate to have the very best of friends and those friendships meant a great deal to him. He had regular reunions with his rural kindergarten class. The few of them enjoyed their special bond.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Setta and Auzie Tucker, and brother, Carl Tucker.

Memorial services will follow at a later date. Contributions may be made to The Tucker Methodist Church, Tucker, Mo., in care of Ferry Funeral Home, Nevada.

View obituary and send condolences online at www.ferryfuneralhome.com