Geraldine Rucker

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Geraldine “Geri” Rucker, who left us unexpectedly on July 7, 2025. Geri was born on November 26, 1947 to Clarence S. Ulmer Sr and Hattie E. McElya in New Haven, Connecticut. In the early years of her life she moved to Elyria, Ohio where she remained until her recent relocation to Las Vegas, Nevada. A devoted mother to two daughters, Kimberly Yvette Ulmer and Celeste Renee Ulmer-Brown whom she loved deeply, and valued their individual accomplishments. Geri worked for the Elyria City Schools for over 30 years through her retirement. During her time there, she touched many lives and became a positive impact to the children she encountered. Geri possessed a rare gift of connection, her vibrant personality and genuine kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. To know her was to know that she never met a stranger. Geri joined the Daughters of Isis where she became a Past Illustrious Commandress. She also was a dedicated member of the Eastern Stars. She felt aligned with the values of the Eastern Stars through their work in the community and touching the lives of women. Geri loved a good party with line dancing, playing cards, and great music. She also enjoyed the challenge of mastering crossword and jigsaw puzzles to keep her mind sharp as she began to age. Throughout her life she enjoyed cooking and baking as well as taking care of others. Her nurturing spirit was so profound that it showed through her sentimental gestures and her strong foundation and belief in Jesus Christ. Geri loved being a grandmother to her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She imparted a wealth of valuable lessons, each one a testament to the hard earned wisdom she cultivated and shared so generously. Geri leaves behind the following children and grandchildren, Daughter Kimberly Ulmer and sons Javon Tolliver (Kampire Francoise Tolliver) , Darian Tolliver, and Anthony Arroyo. Daughter Celeste Ulmer- Brown (Tracy Brown) children Ashlee Almona (MacEvans Almona), Savon Scarver, Daijah Brown, and Bradley Brown. Great grandchildren: DeShawn Tolliver, Lorenzo Arroyo, Bradley Tolliver, Rose Almona, Nicholas Arroyo, Michieal Tolliver, and Noah Almona. She is survived by her siblings: Clarence Seymour Ulmer Jr, Kay Denise Pittman, Cora Roxanne Pittman, James Pittman, Russell Pittman, Michael Pittman, Barbara Ulmer and Betty Jean Ogle. Geri leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews,grand nieces, nephews, and cousins. Geraldine was preceded in death by her parents Clarence S. Ulmer Sr and Hattie E. McElya, and foster mother Freeman Clark; loving companion, Horace Jacocks; sister, Gloria Jones; brother John Ulmer; Nephew, Darryl Jones; and her grandson Bradley Brown