James Larry Tucker, 1935-2019
Funeral services for James Larry Tucker, 84, were April 23 at Sand Springs Baptist Church.
Mr. Tucker died April 20.
He was born on Jan. 12, 1935, in Golden to Edgar and Julia Mae Tucker. He attended school in Golden, where he met the love of his life, Mary Willis. After marrying, Larry and Mary moved to Nacogdoches. Larry attended Stephen F. Austin State University and graduated with a degree in education. He began his career as a teacher and coach. He and Mary raised three daughters, Jamie, Jana and Jae, and instilled a value of education and the importance of family with all of them. He was a teacher and coach at Rivercrest High School. He led teams to state championships in girls basketball, boys basketball and girls track. In addition to teaching and coaching, he served as superintendent of Leonard ISD for over 20 years.
He loved to share stories, play cards and dominoes, laugh with friends and teach anyone that was willing how to water ski on Lake Bonham. After retirement, he and Mary moved back to their childhood home of Golden. They were members of the Golden Baptist Church and spent their days enjoying the outdoors and celebrations with family.
Mr. Tucker was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Max Ray; and his wife, Mary.
He is survived by his three daughters; his grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the James Larry Tucker Scholarship Fund, care of Leonard High School, 300 E. Hackberry, Leonard, TX 75454.
