Raymond Rucker, 71, passed away on February 7, 2025, in Newport, Tennessee. Born on June 29, 1953, in Jenkins, Kentucky, Raymond lived a life marked by dedication, ingenuity, and an unwavering commitment to his family and those around him. 

A graduate of Jenkins High School in Kentucky, Raymond built a successful career with Ford Motor Company until his retirement in 2003. His strong work ethic and determination were evident in everything he did-whether providing for his loved ones or tackling any challenge that came his way. He had a unique way of solving problems, viewing them as puzzles to be worked through with patience and creativity. If he didn't know how to fix something, he would find a way-whether by reading a book or watching a video-always eager to learn and improve. 

Raymond found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved tinkering with things, always eager to take something apart just to figure out how it worked. Fishing brought him peace, and riding ATVs through the mountains of Kentucky was one of his favorite pastimes. But above all else, Raymond's greatest love was his family. He worked tirelessly to provide for them and instilled in them the values of perseverance and problem-solving that defined his own life. 

He is survived by his siblings Donald and Terri Rucker, Rosemary Rucker Bartley, Marietta and Gregg Cummings, and Jeff and Tina Rucker; his daughters Melody and Ed McDonald, Mandy Rucker, Maeghan Rucker and Robert Treska, Libby Rucker, Caitlin and Alex Johnson, and Jennifer Rucker; as well as numerous nieces and nephews including Don Rucker, Sean and Amanda Rucker, Tabitha Rucker, Tabitha and James Riley, Annetha Bartley, Stacy Murga, Jamey Murga, Jeffrey Rucker Jr., and Jessica Beilstein. His legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren Cody Rucker, Delilah Rucker, Jillian Treska, Tanner Johnson, Ashton Rhodes, Jonny Treska, Maeghan Johnson (Megara Mae), Melody Rucker, Dani Rucker, and Charlie Rucker. 

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Lillian Rucker; his brother-in-law Kyle Bartley; his grandson Nicholas Treska; and most heartbreakingly for him in recent years-his beloved wife of over 45 years and true soulmate Ivory Cantrell Rucker. Their reunion is surely one of joy beyond measure. 

On February 7th, the world lost a great man-but heaven gained an incredible soul. Raymond has gone home to walk the streets of gold with Jesus. Though he will be deeply missed by all who knew him, his memory will live on in the lessons he taught and the love he shared. Until we meet again.