John Thomas Rucker, Sr.

John Thomas Rucker, 87, of Harrisburg, passed away Monday, June 23, 2025, at Atrium Health Cabarrus Hospital in Concord.

Johnny was born November 1, 1937, in Campbellsville, Kentucky to the late Thurman Allen Rucker and the late Ina Belle Coontz Rucker. He was also preceded in death by wife, Willanna Johnson Rucker; son, Tommy Rucker; and brothers, Joe and Bobby Rucker.

Survivors include daughters, Martina Drye (Danny) and Teresa Helms (Robert); son, Todd Rucker (Beth); daughter-in-law, Linda Rucker; seven grandchildren: Maranna Drye, MacKenzie Drye (Tristina), John T. Rucker III, Will Rucker, Andre Rucker, Greer Helms and Grant Helms; brother, Raymond Rucker; and sister, Carolyn St. Clair (Roger); sister-in-law, Lesta Rucker; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Johnny was a leader in his community. From church elder, to baseball & basketball coach, to valued Manager at IBM. We are all richer for knowing and loving him. He was a devoted husband and the most fun and loved Dad and Grandfather, as well as a friend to all. He served his country in the National Guard. His humor and fashion sense will live on as his legacy. He loved and supported his beloved Cincinnati Reds and University of Kentucky Wildcats.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm - 1:45 pm, Wednesday, June 25, 2025 at Hartsell Funeral Home of Harrisburg. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 pm in the funeral home chapel, officiated by Pastor Ray Kawolski from Venture Church. The service will be webcast. Burial will follow at the Carolina Memorial Park Cemetery Harrisburg, 12015 University City Blvd., Charlotte.

Memorials may be made to JoeMartinALSFoundation.org

Hartsell Funeral Home of Harrisburg is serving the Rucker family.