Gerald Ray Tucker, 68, of Odessa, Missouri, passed away on October 20, 2025, at Avera Eureka Community Hospital following cardiac arrest while on a hunting trip in South Dakota.
Gerald was born August 27, 1957, in Sugar Creek, Missouri, to John and Fern Tucker. He graduated from Van Horn High School (1975) and became a master craftsman in home construction, specializing in custom cabinetry and home remodeling. He earned an Associate’s degree in Bible from Tri-City Baptist Seminary (1999).
A devoted Missouri University fan and passionate outdoorsman, Gerald was an avid hunter and fisherman who loved conservation, sports, and time at “the farm.” He was a masterful storyteller who knew no stranger. His warmth, humor, and generosity touched everyone he met.
Gerald was preceded in death by his father, John Tucker. He is survived by his mother, Fern Tucker Haynes (Frank) of El Dorado, MO; brother John Tucker (Gloria) of Lenexa, KS; wife Beth Tucker of Odessa, MO; children Ann (Andrew) Weiss of Houston, TX, Lydia Tucker Vogt of Arlington, VA, Paul (Becki) Tucker of Independence, MO, and Rachel (Bryan) Oliver of Independence, MO; 15 grandchildren; and nephew Jason Tucker of Rolla, MO.
Services: Visitation begins at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, November 2, followed by funeral service at 4:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Odessa, 100 Highway OO, Odessa, Missouri 64076. Private graveside service at Freeman-Holsapple Cemetery in Collins, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Gerald’s Memorial Fund at https://everloved.com/life-of/gerald-tucker. Expressions of sympathy may be directed to Fern Haynes at the Bungalows in Nevada.
Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home ~ Independence, MO (816) 796-8600