James Fitzhugh Tucker

James Fitzhugh Tucker died December 29, 2010 at Quapaw Retirement Center. Jim was born January 6, 1925 to Lee Fitzhugh Tucker and Christine Praytor Tucker. He graduated from Subiaco Academy in 1943. He then felt the call of duty and joined the Navy in 1943. He served on the U.S.S. Chauncey as a 1st Gunners Mate. His ship served in major Naval battles including Okinawa, Leyte Gulf, Saipan, Tarawa, Kwajalein, Guam, Palau and Iwo Jima and was awarded numerous combat citations. His ship was present during the signing of the surrender of hostilities between the United States and Japan forces. His eyes witnessed true American History. He returned to college under the G.I. Bill to attend Henderson State Teachers College in Arkadelphia graduating in 1951. He married Patricia Ann Ellen of Hope, Arkansas on May 21, 1951. He then served as 1st Lieutenant in the Korean War as an Infantry Officer. He was awarded the Bronze Star for Valor during his tour of duty. He was Honorably Discharged from active service in 1952. Upon return from the Korean War he was employed with General Motors Acceptance Corporation as a Regional Credit Manager for 29 years. Upon retiring he joined First Federal of Arkansas as a Regional Credit Manager for Mortgage Operations. He again retired in 1993. He was a member of First United Methodist Church, Friendship Class and a member of the Lion's Club. The next period of his life was his greatest joy. Spending time with Pat, his sons, Robert Lee and Rick and their children. He took immense pride in his family and their love. Their accomplishments were his greatest legacy in life. Jim had a great sense of humor and was quick to use his infectious laugh. He had a large number of lifelong friends that were his close coffee buddies and golf partners; those men were responsible for his fondest moments during his latter years. Jim Tucker was at his best being a friend and loving father; which is the true measure of a full life. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lee Fitzhugh and Christine Praytor Tucker. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Ellen Tucker; son Dr. Robert Lee Tucker, DDS, of Hot Springs, Arkansas and son Rick Tucker and wife Melissa Perdue Tucker of Richardson Texas; brothers Robert Tucker and wife Marianne of Florida and W. Lee Tucker and wife Sue of Hot Springs; four grandchildren: Carrie Tucker Covert and husband Dr. Kent J. Covert, M.D., Dr. James Jordan Tucker, M.D. and wife Stephanie, Colin Fitzhugh Tucker, and John Wells Tucker; great-grandchildren, Claire and Cate Covert. A celebration of his life will be at 1 p.m., Friday at First United Methodist Church in Hot Springs. Guests may register at www.caruth-hale.com.