Jerry P. Tucker Sr., affectionately known as “Thumper,” a beloved father, grandfather, and beacon of unwavering strength, kindness, and faith, passed away on October 11, 2026, at the age of 87, at UNC Health Southeastern in Lumberton, North Carolina.

Born on August 26, 1939, in Kannapolis, North Carolina, to Gurley Tucker and Pearl Agnes Tucker. Throughout his life, Jerry served his community by working as a construction worker, farmer, and lumberjack. Whether enjoying a Nutty Buddy ice cream, watching Gunsmoke, or cheering on his favorite race car drivers, Jerry could often be found with a Pepsi in his hand and a dog by his side. He built his life around family, generosity, humility, and his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He was a man of remarkable strength and determination, and as his family would lovingly say, “He truly was one tough old man!” 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife and mother of their children, Iris Forrest Tucker; daughter, Cassandra (Sandy) Smith; One sister, Sylvia Tucker; and five brothers, Junior, Larry, Grady, Ronnie, and Vauldry Tucker. He’s survived by his son, Jerry Phillip “Hoppy” Tucker Jr.(Tonya); his daughter, Lisa Proffitt (Jason), and grandchildren Alisha, Missy, Jay, Holly, Breanna, Chase, Chad “Chip”and great-grandchildren Sawyer, Peyton, Ellie, Jasmine and Liam.

Family and Friends are invited to celebrate his life on Friday, October 16th, at Zion Freewill Baptist Church in Kannapolis. The viewing will be held at 11am followed by the funeral service at 12pm.